INTRODUCTION
Water is an indispensable resource for life and its sustenance,
playing a pivotal role in ecological balance, human well-being, and economic
development. The quality of surface water sources, such as rivers, lakes, and
reservoirs, is of paramount importance to public health, environmental
integrity, and sustainable growth (Olomukoro et al.,
2022). The city of Abuja, nestled in the heart of Nigeria, stands as a dynamic
urban center experiencing rapid expansion and modernization. Amidst its
development, several individuals residing under the bridges and uncompleted
structures consume surface water within the Abuja Central Area, and this emerges
as a significant concern, warranting rigorous scientific investigation.
The nexus between water quality and public health cannot
be overstated. Contaminated surface water harbors the potential to propagate
waterborne diseases, causing widespread illness and even fatalities. Microbial
contaminants, including pathogenic bacteria, can thrive in surface water,
posing threats to individuals who rely on it for drinking, sanitation, and
recreational activities. Furthermore, the physicochemical composition of water
plays a crucial role in maintaining aquatic ecosystems, influencing flora,
fauna, and overall ecological equilibrium (Taiwo et
al., 2020; Khan et al., 2013; Pawari and Gawande, 2015; Raji and Ibrahim,
2011).
The present study undertakes a comprehensive assessment
of the bacteriological and physicochemical attributes of surface water, an
essential resource within the Abuja Central Area. Understanding the microbial
contamination and physicochemical parameters of surface water in this region is
crucial for effective water resource management and the protection of public
health.
By identifying potential sources of contamination and
understanding the overall water quality, this research will contribute to the
development of effective strategies for water resource management, pollution
control, and public health protection. The findings of this study will serve as
a valuable reference for policymakers, water management authorities, and other
stakeholders involved in ensuring the safety and sustainability of surface
water resources in Abuja Central Area.
METHODOLOGY
Study Area
The study will be conducted in the Abuja Central Area
(ACA), which encompasses various surface water bodies, including streams, lakes,
and ponds. Abuja Central Area, consisting of the Central Business District
(CBD), Maitama, Garki, and Wuse is located within the Abuja Municipal Area Council
(AMAC) of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Nigeria with over 1.5 million
people. ACA lies in latitude 9.072264N and longitude 7.491302E within the
Guinean savanna mosaic zone of the West African sub-region and experiences a
hot, humid, and temperate climate. The area is majorly characterized by public
and civil servants, highbrow businesses and buildings, and a lot of ongoing
constructions.
Sample
Collection
A systematic sampling approach was used to collect
surface water samples from different sampling points within the Abuja Central
Area. Sampling points were selected randomly, but certain factors such as accessibility,
representation of different water sources, and potential sources of
contamination were considered. The water samples were collected using aseptic
sampling techniques and equipment to ensure proper hygiene and minimize contamination
during the sampling process. 900mL samples were collected in triplicates (300mL
each) from each collection point per sample location. Each sample from the
various locations was mixed thoroughly in a 1L sterile container and
immediately transported to the laboratory for further analysis.
Bacteriological
Assessment
Bacteriological assessment –
total heterotrophic and total coliform count – of the water samples was carried
out according to the method described by Abolude et
al. (2019) and Anyanwu and Okoli
(2012). Briefly, a volume of 1 mL from each water sample was carefully
transferred into 9 mL of normal saline, serially diluted, and 0.1 mL aliquots
of 10-5 were spread onto duplicate nutrient agar plates. The plates
were incubated aerobically at 37°C for 24 h, and the mean number of discrete
colonies on each plate was recorded as the total heterotrophic count in CFU/mL.
For total coliform and E. coli
count, the most probable number (MPN) technique involving three dilutions of
the water samples (10, 1, and 0.1 mL) was employed, and the results were expressed
as MPN/100mL.
Gram Stain and Biochemical
Characterization of Coliforms.
Isolates from MPN analysis were
subjected to Gram staining, growth on selective and differential media (MacConkey, EMBA, and SSA), and biochemical tests including indole, methyl red, Vorges Proskauer, citrate, oxidase, and catalase tests as
described by Chuku et al. (2016).
Physicochemical
Assessment
The physicochemical assessment involved measuring various
parameters to evaluate the chemical and physical properties of the water
samples and was carried out as described by Kolawole et
al (2011) and Anyanwu and Okoli
(2012). The parameters measured include pH, temperature, conductivity,
salinity, magnesium hardness, total hardness, calcium hardness, dissolved
oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD),
total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids (TSS), and specific ions
(e.g., nitrate, phosphate, potassium, chloride).
The measurements were conducted using standardized
methods and calibrated instruments. Multiple samples were taken at each
sampling point to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the results. Care was
taken to follow appropriate techniques for each parameter to obtain precise and
consistent measurements.
Data
Analysis
The collected data, including bacteriological and
physicochemical results, will be compiled and subjected to statistical
analysis. Descriptive statistics such as means, standard deviations, and
frequencies will be calculated to summarize the data. Graphs, charts, and
tables will be used to present the findings in a clear and understandable
manner.
Statistical tests, such as t-tests and analysis of
variance (ANOVA), were used to determine significant differences among sampling
points. The IBM SPSS v25 statistical software was used for data analysis.
RESULTS
Bacteriological Assessment
Bacterial
counts
Table 1 shows the total heterotrophic, coliform, and E.
coli counts of the surface water sampled from the 4 locations in the Abuja
Central Area. Central Business District had the highest THC while Maitama had the least THC. For TCC and E. coli counts,
Maitama had the lowest counts while Garki had the highest counts for both.
DISCUSSION
The results of this
comprehensive assessment of surface water quality in the Abuja Central Area
provide valuable insights into the state of water resources in this urban
environment. The analysis of bacterial contamination in surface water samples
revealed that the total heterotrophic count was higher than WHO limits and
ranged from 3.1 x 106 to 4.3 x 106 CFU/mL, indicative of
a substantial bacterial load in these waters, relative to the findings by (Jasmine
et al., 2019). While these counts themselves do not necessarily indicate a
health hazard, they serve as a useful indicator of microbial diversity and
potential contamination sources. The findings of this study disagree with the report
of Anyanwu and Okoli (2012)
who had lower counts from water supplies in Nsukka. However, THC in this study was lower than those of
river samples in Zaria reported by Taiwo et al.
(2020).
The total coliform
count, which ranged from 290 to 420 CFU/100mL, revealed variable levels of
fecal contamination across the sampled locations. These counts are extremely
high, similar to the findings at Ifaki by Mutiat et al., 2023 and Obiora,
2014, raising concerns about the presence of fecal coliforms in surface waters.
Fecal coliforms are important indicators of fecal pollution, and their presence
suggests possible contamination by human or animal waste, increasing the risk
of waterborne diseases (Taiwo et al., 2020; Franciska et al., 2005).
Furthermore, the
identification of specific coliforms is noteworthy. E. coli, S. typhi, and S. dysenteriae
were identified, with E. coli being the most prevalent (37.50%
prevalence rate). E. coli is a recognized indicator of recent fecal
contamination and is often linked to the presence of pathogenic strains. S.
typhi and S. dysenteriae
are potential human pathogens, underscoring the importance of vigilance
regarding water quality in this area. Earlier reports (Taiwo
et al., 2020; Obiora, 2014; Musyoki et al., 2013; Anyanwu
and Okoli, 2012) have reported similar coliforms from
water samples. These microorganisms have been reported to cause various degrees
of infections ranging from pneumonia, meningitis, typhoid, diarrhea, urinary
tract infections, dysentery, and deaths (Taiwo et
al., 2020; WHO, 2011). Thus, strategies for mitigating fecal contamination
sources, such as improved sanitation and stormwater
management, are crucial.
Physicochemical analysis
of the surface water samples yielded results that generally fell within
acceptable limits, reflecting the potential suitability of these waters for
various uses. However, two parameters, conductivity and total dissolved solids
(TDS), exceeded the recommended limits (150 µS for conductivity and 10 µS for
TDS) established by the World Health Organization (WHO) (WHO, 2011).
The average conductivity
value of 239.2 µS exceeded the WHO limit of 150 µS, indicating a higher
concentration of ions in the water. Similarly, the average TDS value of 150
mg/L surpassed the WHO limit of 10 mg/L. Elevated conductivity and TDS values
can result from the accumulation of dissolved salts and minerals, often
originating from geological sources or anthropogenic activities such as runoff
from roads and industrial discharges (Obiora, 2014),
further emphasizing the need for monitoring and management. These elevated
levels may influence the taste, palatability, and utility of the water. Hence,
there is need for a more comprehensive investigation into potential sources of
ion contamination. Integrated watershed management, including regular
monitoring and source tracking, can aid in identifying and mitigating
anthropogenic impacts on water quality.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the bacteriological and physicochemical
assessment of surface water in Abuja Central Area revealed the presence of
bacterial indicators, potential sources of contamination, and variations in
physicochemical parameters, underscoring the importance of continuous
monitoring and management of surface water resources in urban environments.
These findings emphasize the need for immediate action to address water
pollution and ensure the provision of safe water to the community. Public
health interventions, source tracking, and improved sanitation practices are
essential to reduce microbial contamination, while efforts to manage ion levels
and promote sustainable water use are vital for safeguarding water quality and
availability.
The results of this study contribute to the understanding
of water quality in Abuja Central Area and provide valuable information for
decision-makers, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in water resource
management. Continued research and vigilance in water quality assessment are
essential to ensure the well-being of the population and the sustainability of
water resources in the Abuja Central Area. Collaborative efforts among
government agencies, researchers, and the community are crucial to address
these challenges comprehensively. It is crucial to implement the recommended
measures, regularly monitor water quality, and promote public awareness to
safeguard water resources and protect public health.
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