ASSESSMENT OF DRINKING WATER QUALITY OF ALAU DAMP MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE

The study assessed the drinking water quality of Alau Dam, a major source of domestic water supply for Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. The assessment was based on secondary data obtained from previous studies, reports, and published literature focusing on the physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics of the dam water. Key parameters evaluated included temperature, turbidity, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), nutrients, heavy metals, and microbial indicators such as total coliform and Escherichia coli. Findings from the reviewed data revealed significant seasonal variations in water quality, with the rainy season showing higher levels of turbidity, nutrients, heavy metals, and microbial contamination due to surface runoff, erosion, and human activities around the catchment area. While most physical and some chemical parameters fell within WHO and Nigerian drinking water standards during the dry season, microbiological contamination and elevated concentrations of iron, lead, and phosphate exceeded permissible limits, especially during the wet season. The Water Quality Index (WQI) further classified Alau Dam water as good in the dry season but poor and unsuitable for drinking in the rainy season without treatment. The study concludes that Alau Dam water is not safe for direct human consumption, particularly during the rainy season, and requires adequate treatment before distribution. It recommends improved watershed management, regular monitoring, community awareness, and strengthening of the Maiduguri Water Treatment Plant to ensure safe and sustainable water supply.