The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NiHSA, has raised alarm over dangerous levels of groundwater contamination in parts of Lagos, Kebbi and Kogi States, warning that prolonged consumption could lead to severe health complications.
Director-General of the agency, Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, disclosed the findings in Abuja while presenting the latest Water Quality, Flood Assessment and Validation reports.
According to him, samples collected from Ikeja and Ikoyi in Lagos; Argungu Local Government Area of Kebbi; and Lokoja LGA of Kogi State revealed troubling concentrations of toxic substances.
Mohammed said the contaminated water sources contained elevated levels of nitrite, fluoride, lead and cadmium, as well as widespread microbial pollution.
“These pollutants, resulting from industrial waste discharge, sewage infiltration, leachates from refuse dumps and corrosion of ageing pipelines, carry serious health implications.
“Lead exposure can cause neurological impairment, cadmium affects the kidneys, nitrites are linked to blue-baby syndrome, and excessive fluoride causes skeletal and dental deformities,” he explained.
He noted that floodwater intrusion and failing drainage systems were worsening the contamination, adding that inadequate dissemination of early-warning information had left many residents vulnerable.
In Kogi State, Mohammed said groundwater tests revealed dangerous lead concentrations ranging from 0.56 to 12.0 mg/L, in addition to E. coli, Streptococcus and Salmonella, an indication of severe faecal contamination and a high risk of waterborne infections.
In Kebbi State, several communities recorded arsenic levels between 0.75 and 4 mg/L, alongside heavy microbial presence.
Long-term exposure, he warned, could result in arsenicosis, liver damage and gastrointestinal illnesses.
Calling for immediate coordinated intervention, the NiHSA boss urged governments at all levels to prioritise public sensitisation, reinforce water safety measures and ensure residents have access to treated, potable water.
