Assessment of Groundwater Pollution of Parts of Ilorin Metropolis North Central Nigeria: An Insight from Heavy Metals Indices

This study examined groundwater pollution in parts of Ilorin metropolis, North Central Nigeria using heavy metal indices. The research is considered inevitable as a result of the need to providing detailed information on the current state of groundwater potability within the study area. Water samples from 30 locations across the city were analyzed for heavy metal concentrations using standard methods and procedures. The results revealed that iron (Fe) and lead (Pb) exceeded that of World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) permissible limits in some sampled locations, indicating potential health risks to consumers. Conversely, copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), and cadmium (Cd) levels were within or below permissible limits, suggesting that these metals may not pose significant health risks in the study area. The study revealed the potential health risks associated with Fe and Pb contamination due to anthropogenic activities such as industrial influence, poorly managed waste disposal sites, and other human-related activities. The findings of this study underscore the need for regular monitoring and treatment of water to ensure safe drinking water for the inhabitants of Ilorin. The results of the study shows significant implications for water resource management and public health policy in the region, emphasizing the importance of proper waste management practices, routine water quality assessments and effective mitigation strategies to reduce the risks associated with heavy metal contamination.