Oluwafunbi Bello 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) is warning of worsening water contamination in Lagos, Kogi and Kebbi, citing high levels of heavy metals and microbial pollutants linked to recent flooding.
Director-General, Umar Mohammad says NiHSA’s latest water-quality and flood-assessment report reveals dangerous concentrations of nitrite, fluoride, lead, cadmium and microbial contaminants in Lagos.
He attributes the pollution to industrial discharge, sewage leakage, waste infiltration and aging plumbing. He warns the toxins could cause neurological damage, kidney failure and blue-baby syndrome.
In Kogi, groundwater samples show elevated lead and microbial organisms including E. coli, Streptococcus and Salmonella. Kebbi records high arsenic levels alongside severe microbial contamination.
Mohammad urges states to intensify monitoring, enforce water safety standards and expand public awareness. He says NiHSA’s flood forecasts and quality assessments are vital for national preparedness.
Acting Director of Hydrogeophysics, Sunday Husseini, confirms that all affected states have been formally notified. He says Kebbi has agreed to a full contamination-mapping study, while engagements with Lagos and Kogi continue.
He advises residents to follow official advisories and adopt safe water practices to reduce health risks.
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Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
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