Is Abuja Tap Water Safe To Drink?

No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.

Tap water in Abuja, Nigeria, is generally treated but often not considered reliably safe for direct drinking. Contamination risks exist due to aging infrastructure.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Many residents use filtration, boiling, or bottled water to ensure safety. Local water quality can vary depending on the source and treatment effectiveness.

For safe consumption, it is advisable to treat tap water before drinking or use reputable bottled water brands to avoid waterborne illnesses.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

Nigeria is ranked as number 175 globally with a score of 14.4% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Abuja, Nigeria

The main sources of tap water in Abuja are surface water from reservoirs and rivers, primarily the Lower Usuma Dam and the Gurara Dam.

Groundwater from boreholes also supplements supply, especially in areas where surface water infrastructure is limited or during dry seasons.

Water is treated at plants before distribution, but challenges include inconsistent supply and occasional contamination from aging pipes and infrastructure.

Abuja Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Abuja are generally not guaranteed safe due to potential contamination from poor maintenance and water quality variability.

Users should exercise caution, as fountains may not consistently meet hygiene and water safety standards required for safe drinking.

When available, using personal water bottles filled with treated or bottled water is a safer alternative to public fountains.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Abuja. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Abuja is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.