The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has launched an investigation into the water supply at its hostels following complaints from students about vomiting, stooling, and skin reactions.

The move comes after students, particularly those in female hostels, raised concerns that the water might be contaminated. The university has assured the campus community that the matter is being treated with the utmost urgency.

In a statement, the university’s management said it has begun a comprehensive assessment of the water supply system, including laboratory tests, to determine the accuracy of the reports and identify any potential health risks. Immediate measures have also been put in place to safeguard the welfare and health of students.

The institution promised to communicate updates through official channels after the investigation is concluded.

The UNILAG Students’ Union has also been actively engaged with authorities on the matter. According to the union, an inspection of a hostel block where discoloured water was reported revealed that the problem originated from a borehole serving that particular block. As a precaution, the university has suspended water supply from that source and provided alternative arrangements for the affected students.

The union noted that medical personnel at the University Medical Centre have not yet established a definitive link between the reported illnesses and the hostel water supply. It also pointed out that some of the affected students reside off campus. However, water samples have been collected from hostels for laboratory analysis, with results expected within 48 hours.

The Students’ Union has appealed to students to remain calm and avoid drawing conclusions pending the outcome of the laboratory tests. For now, the university community awaits the test results, which will determine whether the water is safe and what further actions are needed. The situation highlights ongoing concerns about hostel conditions at the institution.