Domestic water sources and its health implication in Lapai Local Government area, Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

This research work studied the importance of water as a resource that needs to be sustained.  From the study, it was realised that poor planning, inadequate funding, insufficient relevant manpower and haphazard implementation of national policy for water supply is responsible for the inadequacy of water both in quantity and quality.  The major aim of this study will be to determine ways and means of improving the availability of water in adequate quantity and quality.  Data were gathered, collated and analyzed in respect of water supply situation in Lapai Local Government Area of Niger State.  The research was carried out through sampling of communities at ward levels.  It was realised that a total number of 117 boreholes were found out of which 1 was motorised and 116 were hand-pump.  About 41.7% of the hand-pump boreholes were functional at the time of the survey.  It was recommended in the study that planning for water supply facilities, especially at state and local government levels should be comprehensive, and implementation of policies should be guided and strictly followed.  In addition, operations and maintenance of water facilities should be handed over to the local communities.

Key Words: Water resources, Health, Implication, Locals, Diseases