CONTENTS OF HEAVY METALS IN THE SOIL AND SOME VEGETABLES GROWN ON IRRIGATED FARM AROUND DOUBELI, ADAMAWA STATE

Heavy metal contamination is a significant environmental health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in agricultural areas. The country's large population and rapid industrial growth have led to increased environmental pollution, affecting soil and food quality. Heavy metals like lead, cadmium, chromium, iron, zinc, and copper can accumulate in soil and plants, posing health risks to consumers. This study assessed the concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, Fe, Zn, and Cu) in soil and selected vegetables (Rossel, Okro, Lettuce and Spinach ) grown on irrigated farms within doubeli Adamawa State. The specific objectives were to determine heavy metal concentrations in the soil and vegetables, comparing them with World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits for safe consumption. The study employed a quantitative approach, collecting soil and vegetable samples from irrigated farms in Adamawa State. The samples were analyzed for heavy metal concentrations using standard laboratory procedures. The soil sample shows copper (0.047 mg/kg), lead (0.467 mg/kg), and chromium (1.130 mg/kg) concentrations all below WHO limits, indicating minimal contamination. However, vegetable samples revealed lead concentrations as high as 0.500 mg/kg (Sample D) and chromium levels up to 1.020 mg/kg (Samples C and D), both exceeding WHO limits of 0.3 mg/kg for lead and 0.3 mg/kg for chromium. The study revealed minimal contamination in soil samples but elevated levels of lead and chromium in vegetable samples, exceeding WHO limits. Long-term exposure to these metals poses health risks, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and good soil management practices. The findings suggest that agricultural activities, such as irrigation and fertilizer application, may contribute to heavy metal contamination. Implementing measures to mitigate contamination and ensuring safe food production are crucial for public health protection