Physicochemical and bacteriological assessment of some borehole waters in the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria

Abstract

A study on physicochemical and bacteriological assessment of borehole waters in the six Area Councils of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria was carried out. The physicochemical results (pH, Conductivity, Calcium, Magnesium, lead, Cadmium, Zinc and Hardness) were carried out. These results were compared with the World Health Organization and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Borehole water sample from Bwari has the highest pH (7.5) while AMAC and Abaji have the lowest pH (6.9) value. The conductivity of the water samples ranged from 102.5 to 112.15 (μs/cm). The amount of calcium ranged from 4.25 to 4.95 (mg/l) while magnesium ranged from 1.0 to 2.7(mg/l). However, Zn2+, Pb2+ and Cd2+ were not detected. The total aerobic count of the borehole waters analysed ranged from 2.45×105 to 3.45×106 of cfu/100ml, total coliform count ranged from 9 to 22.5 MPN/100 ml and a biological oxygen demand (BOD) range of 3.20-5.60mg/l. The bacteriological results of borehole water in the six Area Councils of FCT did not comply with the zero count per 100ml of WHO standard and this poses agreat health risk to consumers. Identifications of isolates were done and the presences of some bacteria were noted. Hence, there is need to enlighten the inhabitants on the treatment of borehole waters before consumption.

Keywords: Physicochemical, bacteriological, water and borehole