ASSESSMENT OF WATER QUALITY IN SHEHURI NORTH AREA OF MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE
Abstract
This study assessed the levels of selected heavy metals and physicochemical parameters in borehole water from Shehuri North, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. Groundwater serves as a major source of domestic water in the area, thereby necessitating regular quality evaluation. Water samples were collected from three borehole locations and analyzed using standard analytical procedures. Physicochemical parameters including pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), and total suspended solids (TSS) were determined, while heavy metals such as mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), and arsenic (As) were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). The results indicated that the physicochemical parameters were within the permissible limits of the World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). However, elevated concentrations of lead, mercury, nickel, and arsenic were observed in some samples, exceeding recommended limits. These contaminants are likely linked to anthropogenic activities such as improper waste disposal and septic system leakage. The study concludes that the water is unsuitable for long-term consumption without treatment. Regular monitoring and appropriate water treatment methods are recommended
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