Analysis of Physicochemical and Bacteriological Quality of Surface and Groundwater Samples in Offa, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

The water quality assessment in First Baptist Church, Offa, Kwara State Nigeria was carried out by examining nine samples in and around the church premises. One surface water sample, five borehole water samples and three well water samples were examined. The result obtained from the physicochemical analysis showed a turbidity range of (2-6NTU), electrical conductivity EC (693-893 μs/cm), total dissolved solids TDS (346-542mg/L), pH (6.83-7.62), magnesium Mg (17-53mg/L), manganese Mn (0.02-0.1), aluminium Al (0.02-0.13mg/L), iron Fe (0.10-0.44mg/L), zinc Zn (0.8-3.60mg/L), chromium Cr (0.02-0.13mg/L), lead Pb (0.01-0.04), Sulphate SO₄ (3- 20mg/L), Nitrate NO₃ (3-18mg/L), phosphate PO₄ (1.5-14mg/L), chlorine Cl (14-42mg/L), copper Cu (0.04- 0.7mg/L), chemical oxygen demand COD (62-120mg/L), total hardness TH (80-160mg/L) and total alkalinity TA (80-136mg/L). These results, together with that of the microbial analysis were compared with the standard provided by the World Health Organization WHO. Hence, it is crucial that the water supplies are regularly assessed and properly treated to provide the consumers with safe and healthy water.