Impact of Anthropogenic Activities On Groundwater Quality: A Case Study from Mbo Lga, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

• Author(s): Essang, Mfonobong Shaineze ; Adigun, Adepoju Ibraheem ; Godwin Nkechinyere Florence ; Racheal Suoyo-Anthony Aziababein
• Paper ID: 1706674
• Page: 973-982
• Published Date: 11-01-2025
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 8 Issue 6 December-2024

Abstract

The coastal areas of Mbo Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, are vital hubs of socioeconomic activity, including oil exploration, fisheries, tourism, and urbanization. However, these anthropogenic activities contribute to heavy metal pollution in water sources, posing risks to human health and ecosystems. This study assessed heavy metal concentrations in water samples from seven boreholes in the area using atomic absorption spectrometry. Metals analyzed included lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg). Results revealed that metals like Pb, Fe, and Ni exceeded World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits in several sites, particularly Sites 1, 5, and 7, indicating severe contamination. A Metal Index (MI) analysis underscored the urgent need for remediation in these locations. While trace metals like Zn, Cu, and Mn are essential for biological processes, their elevated levels can be toxic, alongside the highly detrimental effects of lead and cadmium. Recommendations include prioritizing remediation efforts, regular monitoring, stricter industrial regulations, and public awareness campaigns to mitigate health risks. This study highlights the necessity for sustainable management of water resources to ensure environmental and public health.

Keywords

Anthropogenic activities, environmental contamination, heavy metals, pollution, health risks

Citations

IRE Journals:
Essang, Mfonobong Shaineze , Adigun, Adepoju Ibraheem , Godwin Nkechinyere Florence , Racheal Suoyo-Anthony Aziababein "Impact of Anthropogenic Activities On Groundwater Quality: A Case Study from Mbo Lga, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 8 Issue 6 2024 Page 973-982

IEEE:
Essang, Mfonobong Shaineze , Adigun, Adepoju Ibraheem , Godwin Nkechinyere Florence , Racheal Suoyo-Anthony Aziababein "Impact of Anthropogenic Activities On Groundwater Quality: A Case Study from Mbo Lga, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 8(6)