THE IMPACT OF WATER POLLUTION FROM RIVER NGADDA ON RESIDENTS OF GWANGE I IN MAIDUGURI BORNO STATE

ABSTRACT The study examined the impacts of water pollution from River Ngadda on the residents of Gwange I in Maiduguri, Borno State, with the aim of identifying pollution sources, determining associated health risks, assessing socio-economic consequences, exploring coping strategies, and proposing sustainable interventions. The research adopted a descriptive survey design and utilized both primary and secondary data, with a sample size of 120 respondents selected through purposive and random sampling techniques. Findings revealed that River Ngadda is heavily polluted by untreated domestic wastewater, indiscriminate solid waste disposal, abattoir discharges, and medical waste, resulting in high incidences of waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, typhoid, dysentery, and skin infections among residents. The study further established that pollution significantly affects livelihoods by reducing agricultural productivity, limiting fishing activities, and increasing household expenditure on healthcare and alternative water sources. Although residents employ coping strategies such as boiling water, purchasing sachet water, and seeking distant water sources, these measures are often inadequate and financially burdensome. The research concludes that the pollution of River Ngadda constitutes a major environmental and public health crisis requiring urgent, multisectoral responses. It recommends stronger environmental regulation, improved waste management, rehabilitation of water infrastructure, community health education, and further research on sustainable remediation techniques.