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Mysterious Foam Sparks Frenzy on Nigeria's Kaduna-Abuja Highway

A strange white foam has appeared on Nigeria's Kaduna-Abuja Expressway, drawing crowds and launching an environmental investigation.
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Mysterious Foam Sparks Frenzy on Nigeria's Kaduna-Abuja Highway
Foto: BBC World
The essentials
  • The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency is investigating the foam's origin and potential danger.
  • Preliminary findings suggest it may be the result of a lorry accident, though the exact cargo remains unknown.

A strange white foamy substance has appeared on the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway in Nigeria, sparking widespread curiosity and concern. Isah Aminu, a regular traveler on the route, stopped to look at the foam and described it as looking like snow. The foam appeared a few days ago and has since become a popular stop for drivers taking pictures and recording videos.

The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (Nesrea) has launched an investigation into the substance. People are wondering whether it's a chemical spill or something less dangerous. Commuters like Aminu have taken precautions but still observe others getting close. 'I think the authorities should explain what it is to reduce confusion,' he said.

Nesrea's Kaduna State Field Office confirmed that a team led by State Coordinator Hena Dangari Emmanuel visited the site. They collected samples of the foam, water, and soil from the area for analysis. The agency has urged people to stay away from the substance and surrounding areas until the tests determine if it's safe.

A Nesrea spokesperson shared preliminary results suggesting the foam may have come from a lorry accident. However, the type of cargo in the lorry is still unknown. Officials have stressed the need to fully understand the foam's composition before making public safety recommendations. 'We must first identify the substance before we can guide people on how to handle it or what risks it poses,' the spokesperson said.

The Kaduna-Abuja Expressway is a key route connecting the northern city of Kaduna to the federal capital, Abuja. The highway has become a temporary destination for many due to the unusual sight. While some are fascinated, others are concerned about possible health and environmental threats.

The situation highlights the balance between public curiosity and safety. As Nesrea continues its investigation, the public is advised to avoid contact with the foam until a full assessment is made. For now, the white foam remains a mystery that has drawn attention from both drivers and scientists.

“We have to know what it is first before we can tell people how to handle it or what the dangers are”
Based on reporting by BBC World, compiled by the Tradingbird newsroom. Published 22 Jul 2026, 17:46.
Topics: Politics

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