Juliet Jacob 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) warns Nigerians that waiting until you feel thirsty could mean dehydration has already begun.
In a public advisory shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, the agency stressed the importance of consistent water intake for optimal health.
“Feeling thirsty is a late indicator of dehydration,” the NCDC said. “To support optimal body function, it is important to drink water consistently throughout the day, even before thirst occurs.”
The health body explained that adequate hydration is critical for supporting bodily processes, regulating temperature, aiding digestion, and preventing complications such as kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
The advisory forms part of the NCDC’s #FactFriday campaign, aimed at promoting healthier lifestyle choices among Nigerians. Public health experts note that many people mistake fatigue or headaches for routine tiredness, not dehydration.
Dr. Aisha Bello, a nutritionist in Lagos, urged Nigerians to carry water and consume it throughout the day: “Small, frequent sips are better than drinking large amounts at once. Hydration improves concentration, energy, and immune response.”
NCDC’s reminder is timely as climate change and rising temperatures increase risks of dehydration, particularly in urban areas. Citizens are encouraged to make conscious decisions to drink water before thirst becomes the cue.
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