The University of Lagos University of Lagos has begun a formal investigation into reports of possible water contamination in some of its student hostels after several students reported symptoms including vomiting, stooling and skin irritation.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the institution’s Head of Communication Unit, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, the university said it had activated an urgent review of its water supply system, including laboratory testing, to determine whether the complaints were linked to the campus water sources.

Students, particularly those in female halls of residence, had raised concerns over water quality, prompting fears of a possible public health issue within the university community.

The management said relevant departments had already commenced water quality assessments across affected hostel blocks. It added that immediate steps were being taken to protect students’ health while investigations continue.

The statement noted that samples had been collected from multiple points within the hostel water network and sent for laboratory analysis, with results expected within 48 hours.

However, the university stressed that no confirmed link had yet been established between the reported illnesses and the hostel water supply. It also stated that some affected students were based off-campus, based on preliminary findings from the University Medical Centre.

The University of Lagos Students’ Union also confirmed it had been engaging with authorities on the matter, noting that initial medical assessments had not directly linked the cases to the water system.

During inspections, the union reported that discoloured water found in one hostel block was traced to a borehole serving that specific area. The source was subsequently suspended, and alternative water supply arrangements were introduced for residents.

Authorities have appealed for calm among students, urging the campus community to avoid speculation until laboratory results are released and verified.

The investigation remains ongoing, with the university promising to communicate further updates through official channels once test results are confirmed.