ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METALS (CADMIUM, ARSENIC, CHROMIUM, AND LEAD) IN DRINKING WATER. IN JERE, MAFA AND MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA.

Heavy metals such as lead, arsenic and cadmium are hazardous substances that, when present in drinking water, pose significant health risks to human populations. The specific objectives of this study is to: i-assess the concentrations of heavy metals (such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, and chromium) in the drinking water sources of the study area. Water samples were collected in sterile containers following standard procedures for heavy metal analysis. Samples were preserved with acid to prevent metal ion precipitation and transported to a certified laboratory for analysis. 100 ml of the all three water samples was measured and pour it into three different 250 ml beaker, 5ml of conc nitric acid was added to each sample and heat on the hot plate in fume caobond to reduce the volume to 2ml. The concentrations of heavy metals were compared against the World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standards for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) permissible limits. Statistical analysis, including mean concentration, standard deviation, and spatial variation, was conducted using software like SPSS. The study concludes that drinking water in jere, mafa and Maiduguri is variably contaminated with heavy metals, posing potential health risks to the population. Cadmium and Chromium are of particular concern due to their high levels and strong association with health issues. Based on the findings, the following recommendations are proposed: i. Regular testing of drinking water sources should be institutionalized, particularly in high-risk areas such as IBB and FT. Establishment of local water quality laboratories to facilitate continuous monitoring and quick intervention. ii. The Borno State government and relevant agencies should enforce adherence to WHO and NSDWQ standards for drinking water. iii. public health campaigns should educate residents on the risks of consuming contaminated water and promote safer water handling practices. iv. Investments in water infrastructure, such as the construction of deep wells and boreholes in safer locations, should be prioritized. v. Collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and community groups is essential to address water contamination comprehensively.