Assessment of Physicochemical Characteristics and Heavy Metal Contamination in River Kaduna, Nigeria: Implications for Water Quality and Ecosystem Health
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2026-1013-5699Keywords:
Water Quality, Heavy Metals, River Kaduna, Physicochemical Parameters, Pollution, NigeriaAbstract
Freshwater systems in developing regions are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic pollution, with significant consequences for ecosystem health and human use. This study assessed the physicochemical properties and heavy metal contamination of River Kaduna, Nigeria, to evaluate its water quality status. Water samples were collected from upstream (control) and downstream (polluted) locations and analyzed using standard procedures. Results indicated substantial deterioration in water quality at polluted sites, characterized by reduced dissolved oxygen (3.1 mg/L), elevated biological oxygen demand (6.9 mg/L), and high turbidity (45 NTU). Nutrient enrichment was evident, with increased nitrate and phosphate concentrations. Heavy metals, particularly lead (0.35 mg/L) and cadmium (0.05 mg/L), exceeded recommended limits. These findings highlight severe anthropogenic influence, posing ecological and public health risks. The study underscores the need for continuous monitoring and regulatory intervention.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ummi S. Gimba, Fatima A. Abdullahi, Simon S. Moses, Genesis M. Shehu, Binta J. Sanda
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