Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Henry Owen
Abuja, Nigeria — The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) has issued a warning over unsafe groundwater in parts of Kogi and Kebbi states, revealing dangerously high levels of arsenic and lead in wells relied upon by local communities.
NiHSA’s Director-General, Mr. Umar Mohammed, disclosed on Thursday that samples collected from Birnin Kebbi, Augie, and Argungu Local Government Areas in Kebbi, and Lokoja LGA in Kogi, showed chemical and microbial contamination far above permissible levels.
According to the assessment, arsenic concentrations ranged from 0.75 to 4 mg/L, exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended limit of 0.001 mg/L, posing serious health risks to residents dependent on these water sources. Lead levels were also found to be unsafe.
“Our work provides actionable information that helps governments, communities, and emergency responders act ahead of crises,” Mohammed said, emphasizing that NiHSA’s monitoring helps Nigeria prepare for water-related emergencies.
He further noted that Nigeria faces drought in the North and flooding in the South, making the agency’s work crucial to safeguarding lives and promoting national resilience. Mohammed called on citizens to heed the agency’s advice and cooperate with local authorities to ensure water safety.
NiHSA’s warning underscores growing concerns over public health risks from contaminated water and highlights the need for urgent remedial action to protect vulnerable communities in the affected states.
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