On 10 September 2024, the collapse of Alau Dam caused a catastrophic flash flood in Borno State, Nigeria, severely affecting Maiduguri Municipal Council (MMC) and Jere Local Government Area (LGA). The flood resulted in loss of life, injuries, and mass displacement, and raised concerns about waterborne disease from contaminated water sources. This study assessed the microbial quality of water samples collected from five flood-affected locations: Monday Market, Post Office, College of Nursing, Shehuri, and Buduri. Samples were analysed using standard microbiological methods to determine total bacterial count (TBC) and to isolate and identify selected bacterial contaminants. TBC was elevated at all sampling sites, with the highest count recorded at Monday Market (9.3 × 10⁶ CFU/mL). Escherichia coli, Shigella spp., Salmonella spp., Vibrio cholerae, and Klebsiella spp. were detected, and contamination levels varied among the five locations. The presence of these organisms, particularly the faecal indicator E. coli, suggests faecal contamination of the floodwater. These findings indicate a significant risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, shigellosis, and salmonellosis in the affected communities. They highlight the need for systematic water-quality monitoring, confirmatory identification of priority pathogens, access to safe drinking water, improved sanitation and hygiene, and coordinated public health interventions following flooding. Read more

The surge in demand for lithium, driven by the transition to renewable energy sources and the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), underscores its critical role in modern technology. However, the environmental ramifications of lithium mining present significant challenges. This comprehensive review examines the environmental impacts of lithium extraction on ecosystems, water resources, air quality, and local communities, offering a balanced view of its benefits and drawbacks. Despite its crucial role in green technologies, lithium mining has notable environmental costs, including water depletion, habitat destruction, soil erosion, air pollution, and chemical contamination. Water resources are heavily impacted, particularly by brine extraction, which consumes substantial quantities of water, exacerbating local water scarcity in arid regions like Chile's Atacama Desert. In addition, lithium extraction contributes to water pollution through the release of hazardous chemicals. Land degradation, resulting from habitat destruction and soil erosion, further threatens biodiversity and disrupts ecosystems. Air quality is compromised by the release of dust particles and toxic chemicals that poses health risks to mine workers and nearby communities. Moreover, chemical pollution from acid drainage and heavy metal release presents severe environmental and health risks. Socio-economic impacts, including community displacement and conflicts over water resources, are significant. Indigenous communities in the "Lithium Triangle" and other regions face disruptions to their traditional ways of life and livelihoods due to mining activities. Mitigation measures are essential to address environmental and socio-economic impacts of lithium mining. Key strategies include advanced water management, sustainable mining practices, strict regulation, community involvement, enhanced battery recycling, and investing in alternative energy storage materials. Balancing lithium's benefits for renewable energy and EVs with environmental protection requires understanding these impacts and adopting sustainable practices and technological innovations. Read more

Buruli ulcer (BU) remains a neglected tropical disease that disproportionately affects populations living in rural communities with frequent exposure to aquatic environments. Despite its debilitating physical, social, and economic consequences, evidence on the health-seeking behaviour of affected individuals remains limited in many endemic areas of Nigeria. This study assessed the health-seeking behaviour of Buruli ulcer patients in rural communities with water bodies in Rivers State, Nigeria, and identified factors associated with poor health-seeking behaviour. The study employed a community-based cross-sectional design among residents of selected rural Local Government Areas with water bodies. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 405 participants, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from World Health Organization (WHO) Buruli ulcer assessment tools and the WHO Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) instrument. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and modified Poisson regression, with adjusted prevalence ratios (APR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) used to identify factors associated with poor health-seeking behaviour. The mean age of the respondents was 38.74 ± 17.20 years. Most respondents were currently unmarried (70.86%), had secondary education (47.04%), lived in households with seven or more members (54.07%), and resided in inland communities (62.47%). Overall, 96.6% of respondents demonstrated poor health-seeking behaviour, while only 3.4% exhibited good health-seeking behaviour. Respondents who were unsure of the distance to their water source were significantly more likely to have poor health-seeking behaviour compared with those living 100–500 m from their water source (APR = 1.16; 95% CI: 1.01–1.34; p = 0.04). Furthermore, respondents who practiced Christianity were significantly less likely to have Buruli ulcer than those practicing Islam (AOR = 0.21; 95% CI: 0.09–0.49; p < 0.001), while civil servants were less likely to have Buruli ulcer than students (AOR = 0.32; 95% CI: 0.10–1.00; p = 0.05). Conversely, respondents with fair knowledge were more likely to have Buruli ulcer than those with good knowledge (AOR = 4.04; 95% CI: 1.07–15.29; p < 0.05). Residence was significantly associated with poor health-seeking behaviour, as respondents living in riverside or swamp areas were less likely (APR = 0.88; 95% CI: 0.79–0.98, p = 0.02) to demonstrate poor health-seeking behaviour than those living inland. Respondents unsure about the distance to their water source were more likely (APR = 1.16; 95% CI: 1.01–1.34, p = 0.04) to have poor health-seeking behaviour than those living 100–500 m from their water source. Additionally, contact with saltwater bodies was associated with an increased likelihood of poor health-seeking behaviour (APR = 1.07; 95% CI: 1.00–1.14, p = 0.05). The study demonstrates that poor health-seeking behaviour remains widespread among Buruli ulcer patients in rural communities of Rivers State, with delayed presentation and reliance on non-formal treatment pathways contributing to the burden of the disease. Strengthening community awareness, improving access to affordable healthcare services, and addressing financial and geographical barriers to care are essential for promoting early diagnosis and treatment of Buruli ulcer in endemic communities. Read more

For quantification of trace heavy metals in groundwater samples employing a new set of chelating agents obtained through Schiff bases and azo compounds    . Heavy metals such as lead (Pb²⁺), cadmium (Cd²⁺), nickel (Ni²⁺), chromium (Cr³⁺), and copper (Cu²⁺) were examined in this study, and complex formation properties of these heavy metals with synthesized ligands have been analyzed under optimized parameters such as pH, metal-ligand ratio, and absorbance wavelength (λmax). Physicochemical properties of 35 ground water samples collected at chosen sampling sites were determined. Parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS) and total hardness of the sample were considered along with the heavy metals. All spectrophotometric studies were carried out with the help of a UV-VIS Spectrophotometer. It was observed that stable and highly colored metal–ligand complexes were obtained, with maximum molar absorptivity and distinct absorption maxima corresponding to each metal ion. The new method proved to be linear (R² > 0.997), with low detection limits and good recovery values (97.6 to 99.5%) with acceptable precision. It was observed that copper possessed the highest stability constant, whereas cadmium had the least stable complex. Use of the method on actual groundwater samples showed the presence of trace amounts of other heavy metals.      Correlation analysis demonstrated positive relationships between electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), and the concentrations of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), and copper (Cu), indicating that higher EC and TDS values were associated with increased heavy metal concentrations in the groundwater samples. Read more

This study assesses organic and nutrient pollution within the Urban Nature Reserve of the Grande Niaye of Pikine and Dependence (UNRGNPD), an urban wetland located in Dakar, Senegal. The findings reveal pronounced spatial heterogeneity: the Dependence exhibit elevated concentrations of ammonium and phosphates, reflecting the influence of domestic and agricultural discharges, whereas sulphates dominate in Technopole, associated with effluents from the wastewater treatment plant. Significant correlations between ammonium-phosphate and nitrate-sulphate concentrations confirm the multiple anthropogenic sources of pollution. The Organic Pollution Index (OPI) classifies all lakes as being subject to very high levels of pollution, with a mean Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD₅) of 23.36 mg/L, indicating a substantial risk of eutrophication. These pressures undermine fish biodiversity and threaten socio-economic activities such as fishing and market gardening. Seasonal and interannual variations further highlight the influence of climatic conditions on pollution dynamics. An integrated management approach combining discharge regulation, control of invasive species, and the implementation of nature-based solutions is essential to safeguard the ecosystem services of the UNRGNPD. Read more

Introduction: Water-related diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity among underfive children in low-income urban settings, driven by inadequate access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene. In Sierra Leone, rapid urbanisation has intensified these risks, particularly in secondary cities such as Kenema, where WASH infrastructure remains limited. Aim: This study assessed the prevalence, determinants, and impacts of water-related diseases among underfive children in selected communities in Kenema city, with an emphasis on water access, sanitation, hygiene practices, and prevention strategies. Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 households with underfive children. Quantitative data were collected via structured household questionnaires that captured sociodemographic characteristics, water sources, sanitation facilities, hygiene practices, and childhood illness episodes. The data were analysed via SPSS version 28 via descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression at the 5% significance level. Qualitative data were obtained through five focus group discussions with caregivers and 15 key informant interviews with community leaders, health workers, and local officials. Thematic analysis was conducted via NVivo to contextualise the quantitative findings. Results: Overall, 83.0% of households reported at least one episode of water-related disease among underfive children in the preceding 12 months, with diarrhea (31%), cholera (29%), and typhoid fever (26%) most frequently reported. The use of unimproved water sources (χ², p &lt; 0.001), shared sanitation facilities (p = 0.002), the absence of handwashing with soap (p &lt; 0.001), and walking ≥ 1 km to water sources (p = 0.01) were significantly associated with disease occurrence. In the multivariate analysis, a lack of household water treatment (AOR = 2.4; 95% CI: 1.5–3.9) and poor hand hygiene (AOR = 3.1; 95% CI: 1.9–5.0) were independently associated with elevated health risk. Recurrent illness episodes were linked to reported weight loss, reduced appetite, and delayed care seeking. Conclusion: Water-related diseases, driven by structural WASH deficits and constrained hygiene practices, remain highly prevalent among children under five years of age in Kenema city. Integrated investments in safely managed water, sanitation, and community-centred hygiene interventions are essential to reduce recurrent childhood illness and associated nutritional and economic impacts. Read more

This study evaluated the chemical composition of water yam-cocoyam composite flour (70: 30) supplemented with cowpea flour and sensory characteristics of Ekpang nkukwo prepared from the flour blends. Water yam-cocoyam composite flour was supplemented with cowpea flour as follows: 100:00, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30 and 60:40. A 70:30 water yam flour: cocoyam flour served as the control. Proximate, mineral and vitamin composition were evaluated to assess the nutritional quality of the flour blends while sensory evaluation was carried out on Ekpang nkukwo prepared from the flour blends. Result showed that protein, fat, ash and fibre increased significantly (p&lt;0.05) from 1.89-20.54%,0.98-1.28%, 2.00-6.17%, 2.23-3.65% respectively while carbohydrate and energy decreased significantly (p&lt;0.05) from 92.90-68.38%, 387.98-367.12 kcal/100 g respectively with increase in cowpea flour supplementation. Similarly, mineral (potassium, calcium, zinc, iron) and vitamin (beta carotene, vitamin B1, B2, B3, B9 and C) contents increased significantly (p&lt;0.05) with increase in cowpea flour supplementation. However, sodium content of the flour blend decreased significantly (p0.05) difference in appearance, taste, aroma, mouthfeel, consistency and general acceptability scores between Ekpang nkukwo prepared from the control sample (water yam-cocoyam composite flour without cowpea supplementation) and that of 10% cowpea supplemented flour blend. However, beyond the 10% cowpea flour supplementation, sensory scores decreased significantly (p&lt;0.05) with increase in cowpea flour supplementation. This study recommends the use of 10% cowpea flour supplemented yam–cocoyam composite flour for preparing nutritionally enhanced Ekpang nkukwo without compromising consumer acceptability of the product. Read more

This study compares the presence of essential and toxic elements in UK and African waters. Drinking water samples (n=93) were collected from Leicester, UK [45 bottled drinking water (BDW) and 48 tap drinking water (TDW)]. Concentrations of 26 elements were determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Notably, cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) were detected only in TDW samples, with detection percentages of 25% and 60.4%, respectively. In contrast, very low concentrations of arsenic (As) and mercury (Hg) were detected in 82.2% and 100% of BDW samples and in 88.9% and 95.6% of TDW samples, respectively. All detected element concentrations were within World Health Organization safety limits. The hazard quotient (HQ) and Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) values for toxic elements were below the permissible limits, suggesting no significant long-term health risks. In contrast, recent literature from some African countries has revealed high concentrations of toxic elements, such as Pb and As, with HQ and ILCR exceeding guidelines. Consumption of water can be higher in African countries, which have warmer climates, and this will further increase their exposure to toxic elements compared to the UK. There is an urgent need to lower toxic elements in African drinking waters through improvements to the water treatment and distribution systems. Read more

The study of hydrochemical facies is particularly relevant in coastal and deltaic environments, where aquifers are shallow, hydraulically connected to surface water systems, and vulnerable to contamination. The absence of a comprehensive facies-based assessment for the study area represents a critical knowledge gap. This study investigated the geochemical characteristics and determined the hydrochemical facies of groundwater in Tombia, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, with the aim of assessing water quality, identifying dominant geochemical processes, and evaluating potential contamination risks. Five groundwater samples were collected from boreholes across the community and analyzed for physicochemical properties, major cations and anions, using standard analytical techniques and results were subjected to statistical analysis. Piper’s trilinear diagram was employed for the hydrochemical facies classification. Results show pH values (6.35–6.95), indicating slightly acidic conditions, likely influenced by organic matter decomposition and acid sulphate soils. Major ion chemistry is dominated by Ca²⁺ (0.391–1.657 mg/L) and HCO₃⁻ (40.0–90.0 mg/L), with ionic dominance sequences of Ca²⁺ &gt; Na⁺ &gt; Mg²⁺ &gt; K⁺ and HCO₃⁻ &gt; Cl⁻ &gt; SO₄²⁻ &gt; NO₃⁻ for cation and anions respectively, reflecting carbonate weathering and rainfall recharge as primary geochemical controls. Piper’s trilinear diagram revealed that 80% of samples fall within the Ca–Mg–HCO₃ facies, characteristic of recently recharged, fresh groundwater, while 20% lie in the mixed Ca–Mg–Cl field, indicating minor ion-exchange processes. The study concludes that while groundwater in the study area remains geochemically fresh and suitable for agriculture and domestic use based on major ion chemistry, slightly acidic groundwater conditions may enhance contaminant mobility. These findings underscore the need for regular monitoring, improved waste management, water treatment interventions, and policy actions to ensure safe and sustainable groundwater use in the Niger Delta region. Read more

Intestinal parasitic infections remain a significant public health concern in Nigeria, particularly among school-aged children who are frequently exposed to poor sanitation, unsafe water sources, and inadequate hygiene practices. This study assessed the prevalence, distribution, and risk factors associated with intestinal parasite infections among primary school children in Edo South Senatorial District, Nigeria, with a focus on Ascaris lumbricoides and other common intestinal parasites.A cross-sectional study was conducted among 633 pupils aged 6 to 12 years across selected primary schools in the seven Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Edo South. Structured questionnaires were used to obtain sociodemographic and environmental data, while stool samples were collected and examined using standard parasitological techniques. Molecular characterization was performed on selected isolates of Ascaris lumbricoides. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to assess associations between risk factors and infection prevalence. Of the 633 pupils examined, 145 tested positive for one or more intestinal parasites, giving an overall prevalence of 22.9%. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent parasite, followed by hookworm, Taenia species, Entamoeba histolytica, and Strongyloides stercoralis. The highest infection rates were recorded in Ikpoba-Okha, Orhionmwon, and Oredo LGAs. A significant association (p &lt; 0.05) was observed between infection prevalence and LGA of residence as well as water source, with pupils relying on well and river water showing higher infection rates than those using treated tap water. Gender, age, and religion were not significantly associated with infection. Molecular analysis revealed moderate genetic diversity among Ascaris isolates, indicating potential zoonotic and anthroponotic transmission routes. The study highlights a considerable burden of intestinal parasites among schoolchildren in Edo South, driven largely by unsafe water sources and geographical disparities in sanitation. The dominance of Ascaris lumbricoides and its genetic variability underscores the need for integrated control strategies, including improved water supply, health education, regular deworming, and enhanced surveillance. Targeted interventions in high-risk LGAs are essential to reducing transmission and improving child health outcomes in the region. Read more