Assessing the Influence of Land Use on Water Quality in Nigeria

A Case Study of Goronyo Local Government Area, Sokoto State

Abstract

This study examines the impact of land use on water quality in Nigeria, focusing on Goronyo Local Government Area. The study area comprises predominantly residential zones along with open refuse dumpsites and auto-mechanic workshops. Over a period of twelve months, water samples were collected from residents and various locations within and around these two impact points, covering both the dry and rainy seasons. A total of 69 sampling points were distributed across different land use categories. The collected samples were analyzed for parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, temperature, total dissolved solids, basic anions and cations using standard methods. Heavy metal analysis (including Fe, Pb, As, Cr) was conducted using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, while microbiological analysis employed the most probable number method for counting coliform. The results showed that the mean pH of water samples in the residential area, dumpsite, and mechanic site were 5.61, 6.31, and 4.63 respectively. The maximum concentration of total dissolved solids (TDS) was 1022mg/L in the residential area and 733mg/L at the dumpsite. Concentrations of heavy metals exceeded permissible limits in all areas, with the highest microbial distribution observed at the dumpsite. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences among the sources at p<0.05. Overall, the findings indicate that the identified impact points significantly influence water characteristics. The study suggests a need for policymakers to reassess land use patterns and implement a continuous monitoring program for the study area.