Evaluating Groundwater Safety: Heavy Metal Contamination of Selected Boreholes across Uyo Metropolis, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

In light of growing concerns about water quality and its effects on public health, this study offers an in-depth analysis of heavy metal concentrations in selected boreholes water within Uyo Metropolis in Akwa Ibom State. The research also emphasizes the potential health risks associated with these heavy metals, particularly as some have been found to exceed the acceptable drinking water limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Borehole water samples from ten strategically selected locations were collected and analyzed for heavy metals using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) to quantify the concentrations of copper, zinc, iron, chromium, and nickel. The results revealed that all water samples contained iron concentration (0.551 mg/L), surpassing the guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ), indicating a pervasive risk to consumers. Additionally, elevated levels of nickel (0.298 mg/L) were detected in several samples, further exacerbating the public health implications. The findings underscore the critical need for policy intervention and infrastructure investment to ensure the safety and sustainability of safe water resources for human use.