ASSESSMENT OF ARSENIC CONCENTRATION LEVEL IN GROUNDWATER IN YOLA NORTH, ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
The presence of high arsenic concentration level in the environment and in groundwater sources have become a serious cause for concern Worldwide. The concentration level of arsenic in boreholes and wells in the eleven wards of Yola North local government was determined using GA3202 HGA graphite furnace system. The mean concentration levels of arsenic in boreholes and wells in Limawa, Gwadabawa, Nasarawo, Doubeli, Rumde, Yelwa, Luggere, Jambutu, Alkalawa, Ajiya and Karewa wards are: 0.920, 0.709, 0.602, 0.218, 0.180, 0.176, 0.144, 0.1405, 0.092, 0.052 and 0.02mg/L respectively. The highest and the lowest mean arsenic concentration level was recorded in Limawa and Karewa wards respectively. All the groundwater samples analyzed in the eleven wards of Yola North had arsenic concentration levels alarmingly on the higher side above the permissible limit of 0.01mg/L Word Health Organization Standard and Standard Organization in Nigeria. The degree of arsenic pollution in the groundwater was classified as high to very high water category indicating a potential health risk groundwater to consumers in the long run. The high arsenic concentration levels noticed in groundwater source in this area is a serious cause for concern to the public. Adequate water treatment to lower or remove arsenic from boreholes and well water is recommended to avoid long time exposure which might results to public health disorder.
Authors : Hong, A.H.
Category : Open Access Volume (Issue) : 6(2) Date Uploaded : 12th March 2021