<p>Nanofibers, with their unique properties are emerging as a promising solution for water remediation. Composite nanofibers often enhance basic aspects of remediation. We report the adsorption, selectivity and longevity of electrospun composite nanofibers synthesised from <i>Moringa oleifera</i> (<i>M. oleifera</i>) seed biomass incorporated into metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) polymer blend. The composite fibres (PAN/<i>M. oleifera</i>/Fe₃O₄, PAN/<i>M. oleifera</i>/Fe₃O₄:Co and PAN/<i>M. oleifera</i>/Fe_<i>3</i>O₄:Mn) all showed an affinity for Pb(II) adsorption, however ionic strength and competing cations exerted varying inhibitory effects on Pb(II) adsorption. In naturally polluted wastewater, the composites demonstrated consistently high removal efficiencies (71.7—80.7%) and good selectivity (K) towards Pb(II) with values ranging from 10.3 to 30.4. Moreover, the composite demonstrated reusability and adsorption–desorption cycle stability, with adsorption capacities decreasing by only 13% for the composite with the best removal efficiency and selectivity (PAN/<i>M. oleifera</i>/Fe₃O₄:Mn) after five cycles. The cost assessment of PAN/<i>M. oleifera</i>/Fe₃O₄:Mn nanofiber adsorbent indicates its economic feasibility, making it a competitive alternative to conventional adsorbents. The prepared adsorbents have the potential to address challenges posed by heavy metal pollution in naturally polluted wastewater in an economical manner.</p>