Assessment of Microbial Contaminants in Municipal Area Council Boreholes, Abuja, Nigeria.

Abstract

Introduction: This study evaluated microbial contamination in borehole water across fifteen locations within the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), FCT.

Materials and Methods: Thirty water samples were collected and analyzed for microbial parameters, including total bacterial count (TBC), Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella, yeasts, molds, and parasites.

Results: Results indicated significant microbial contamination, with key locations such as Wuse and Durumi showing TBC levels exceeding 14,000 CFU/ml, far above the WHO and NIS recommended 100 CFU/ml limit. Yeast and mold contamination was also prominent, particularly in Jabi. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and Python, revealing that 80% of the sampled boreholes failed to meet microbial safety standards.

Conclusion: The findings emphasize the need for immediate interventions, including water treatment, routine microbial monitoring, improved sanitation around boreholes, and public health campaigns to raise awareness of the risks associated with untreated borehole water. These steps are crucial for mitigating contamination risks and ensuring regional water safety.