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Integrated Assessment of Emerging Contaminants (Microplastics and Pfas) in Nigerian Freshwater Systems: A Review of Implications on Ecotoxicology and Human Health
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A review of Nigerian freshwater systems found widespread microplastic contamination — predominantly polyethylene, polypropylene, and nylon fibers — alongside emerging evidence of PFAS persistence in water and sediments, with limited local monitoring data available. Both contaminant classes pose significant ecotoxicological risks and human health threats in Nigeria, where communities rely heavily on surface water, underscoring an urgent need for expanded monitoring and regulation.
Microplastics (MPs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) pose more and more risks to freshwater ecosystems and overall human health, especially in Nigeria where communities depend heavily on surface waters, and the available data on these contaminants remain limited. This study reviews existing evidence on the occurrence, eco-toxicological implications, the dangers to health associated with MPs and PFAS in Nigerian freshwater systems. A qualitative narrative review was conducted using peer-reviewed studies, reports, and regional investigations focusing on freshwater organisms, sediments, and water matrices. Emphasis was placed on bioindicator studies, analytical techniques, and exposure pathways. Findings indicate widespread microplastic contamination in Nigerian rivers, with fibers and films of polyethylene, polypropylene, and nylon detected in freshwater invertebrates and water samples at eco-toxicologically significant levels. Transfers to fishes from the affected organisms are made possible because of their position on the cycle of feeding for aquatic organisms. PFAs data are comparatively scarce but confirm detectable concentrations in water, sediments, and wastewater sludge, underscoring their persistence and bioaccumulative potential. Evidence suggests potential sub-lethal ecological effects and plausible human exposure through drinking water and fish consumption. MPs and PFAS represent a growing environmental and public health concern in Nigeria. Despite limited local data, existing evidence supports the need for precautionary management, expanded monitoring, and integrated eco-toxicological and health-focused research to mitigate future risks
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Microplastic Contamination of Marine and Freshwater Fish in Nigeria: Occurrence, Particle Characteristics, Distribution, Ecological Implications and Human-health Concerns
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This review summarizes existing studies on microplastics in Nigerian fish from rivers, lagoons, coastal waters and markets. It found fish are widely exposed to microplastic particles like fibres and fragments, but weak study methods and inconsistent measurements mean claims about ecological harm or human health risk are not yet supported by evidence.
A synthesis of human health and ecological risk assessment indicators for microplastics in Nigerian water systems
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This review pulls together recent studies on tiny plastic particles (microplastics) found in Nigeria's rivers, tap water, groundwater, and bottled water, and finds that surface waters have the highest contamination while bottled water has the least. Kids face higher health risks than adults from drinking this contaminated water, and even treated tap water and groundwater pose a "medium" risk level for children specifically. The takeaway: microplastic pollution is a real and uneven problem across Nigeria, and researchers need more consistent testing methods and closer attention to children's exposure to better protect public health going forward.
Microplastics Pollution in Nigerian Aquatic Ecosystems: Sources, Pathways, Impacts, and Mitigation Strategies. A Review
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This review synthesized evidence on microplastic contamination across Nigerian aquatic ecosystems, including rivers, lagoons, seafood, and drinking water. The authors describe complex pollution pathways and impacts on organisms across trophic levels, while highlighting the need for Nigeria-specific research and stronger waste management policies.
Multi-contaminant Pollution Burden in Nigerian Freshwater Ecosystems: a Systematic Review of Ecotoxicological Evidence from Heavy Metals, Hydrocarbons, Pesticides, and Microplastics for Integrated Risk Assessment
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This review of 87 studies found that Nigerian rivers and lakes often contain unsafe levels of toxic metals, oil-related chemicals, banned pesticides and microplastics, sometimes all at once. Popular local fish species were found to accumulate these pollutants, raising concerns for people who eat them regularly. The combined mix of contaminants may be more harmful than any single pollutant alone, highlighting the need for better monitoring and pollution control.
Assessment of fishes, sediment and water from some inland rivers across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria for microplastics
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Researchers analyzed fish, sediment, and water samples from inland rivers in Nigeria for microplastic contamination, finding particles across all matrices sampled. The study provides baseline pollution data for a region with limited prior microplastic monitoring.
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