Multi-geoenvironmental assessment of heavy metal contamination and health risks in shallow aquifers near telecommunication masts

Groundwater management is vital to community health and ecosystem sustainability. This study assessed the influence of telecommunication mast operations and maintenance activities on shallow groundwater quality in Ikare-Akoko, Nigeria, using an integrated approach that combined regression-based geohydraulic parameters, hydrogeological–engineering tests, and resistivity surveys. Ten groundwater samples and five subsoil samples were analyzed for chemical and heavy metal concentrations (pH, TDS, Cr, Cu, Cd, Mn, Pb, Fe) and soil properties, while five Schlumberger vertical electrical soundings (VES) were used to determined subsurface resistivity. Elevated Fe concentrations (0.636–0.705 mg/L), above WHO standards (< 0.5 mg/L), were detected in mast-affected wells—likely from infrastructure corrosion and operational residues that mobilize Fe under local soil–groundwater conditions—whereas control sites remained within permissible limits. Geotechnical tests revealed loosely compacted sandy–clay loam with medium infiltration capacity, while VES results delineated four lithologic layers with HA, AA, and KH curve types. Derived geohydraulic indices, including Aquifer Vulnerability Index (AVI: − 0.0096 to 0.0926) and longitudinal conductance (0.0437–0.1018 mhos), indicate high susceptibility of weathered aquifers to contamination due to weak protective cover. Health risk assessment revealed no immediate risks for adults or children via ingestion or dermal exposure. Correlation analysis showed strong links between soil fines percentage, infiltration rate, and groundwater protective capacity. These findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and proactive remediation around telecommunication masts to safeguard groundwater quality and public health.