The Federal Government has raised alarm over the presence of toxic metals and microbial contamination in water sources across Kogi and Kebbi states following recent flooding incidents.
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja after conducting a water quality assessment during its post-flood evaluation exercise.
The Director of Hydrogeophysics at NiHSA, Mr. Sunday Ushe, said the agency’s findings revealed dangerous levels of arsenic and microbes in Kebbi, and high concentrations of lead and microbes in Kogi.
“From our assessments, we discovered high concentrations of microbes and arsenic in Kebbi State, and high concentrations of microbes and lead in Kogi State,” Ushe said.
“These elements are transported by floodwaters carrying sediments, agricultural chemicals, and waste materials from farmlands, mining sites, and open defecation areas.”
He explained that floodwater intrusion into shallow wells and rivers often results in contamination, as pollutants from distant locations are deposited into domestic water sources.
“Flooding transports sediments that contain microbes and heavy metals into water systems. These could come from fertilisers, herbicides, or mining residues,” he added.
“Unfortunately, these contaminants find their way into both surface and groundwater.”
Ushe noted that water samples tested from both states exceeded the permissible limits set by the World Health Organisation and the Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality, which recommend a maximum of 0.01 milligram per litre for lead and arsenic.
“In Kebbi, arsenic concentrations ranged between one and four milligrams per litre, while in Kogi, lead levels were found between 1.5 and 12 milligrams per litre,” he said. “This is extremely dangerous, as prolonged exposure can damage vital organs such as the liver and kidneys and may lead to cancers of the skin and bladder.”
The NiHSA official further disclosed that microbial contamination was equally alarming, with pathogens such as E. coli, Salmonella typhi, Streptococci, and total coliform detected in several samples.
“The permissible limit for microbes in water is supposed to be zero,” he emphasised. “The presence of these bacteria indicates severe pollution, which can cause diseases such as typhoid, dysentery, and diarrhoea.”
NiHSA’s Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Umar Muhammed, called for urgent action to prevent further exposure, stressing the need for improved flood management, sanitation, and environmental regulation.
“We must strengthen flood preparedness and ensure proper waste management,” Muhammed said. “Relevant ministries, humanitarian partners, and local authorities should work together to provide safe drinking water to affected communities.”
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to promoting water safety through continuous monitoring and collaboration with state governments and local water authorities.
