Assessing residual chlorine levels for water security at the Lower Usuma Dam treatment plant: Implications for Sustainable Development Goal 6

Despite advancements in water treatment, the degradation of water quality during distribution remains under-researched in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria. This study addresses this gap by evaluating the physicochemical and microbial quality of the water distribution system, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which focuses on water and sanitation management. The effectiveness of water treatment and distribution processes was assessed, identifying variations in water quality across 11 distribution points. Although most physicochemical parameters met standards, manganese levels exceeded WHO guidelines at 10 locations, and low residual chlorine was linked to microbial contamination. These findings underscore the need for enhanced monitoring and treatment, providing recommendations to improve water quality management and protect public health.