ASSESEMENT OF HEAVY METALS CONTAMINATION IN AGRICUTURAL SOILS OF MOLAI VILLAGE OF MAIDUGURI BORNO STATE

ABSTRACT This study assesses the level of heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils of Molai Village, located in Maiduguri, Borno State. The increasing agricultural activities and environmental pressures in the area have raised concerns about the possible accumulation of toxic heavy metals in farmland soils. The study aims to determine the concentrations of selected heavy metals—such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), copper and (Cu), and to evaluate their potential risks to human health and soil quality. Soil samples were collected from different farmlands and analyzed using smart spectrophotometer following standard laboratory procedures. The results revealed varying concentrations of the metals, with Pb and Cd showing slightly elevated levels compared to recommended WHO/FAO limits, suggesting possible contamination from anthropogenic sources such as waste disposal, vehicular emissions, and agricultural inputs. Other metals, including Zn, Cu, and Fe, were within acceptable limits, indicating minimal ecological risk. The study concludes that while the overall soil quality remains suitable for agriculture, the presence of certain heavy metals above safety thresholds poses potential long-term health and environmental risks. It recommends continuous monitoring, proper waste management, and the promotion of environmentally friendly farming practices to prevent further contamination,