Skip to main content

Advertisement

SpringerLink
Log in

A Review on Heavy Metal Concentration in Potable Water Sources in Nigeria: Human Health Effects and Mitigating Measures

  • Review Paper
  • Published:
Exposure and Health Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Nigeria is one of the most populated black nation in the world with a population of about 170 million. Over the years, potable water source which is one of the basic essential requirements for healthy living has been challenging due to inadequate controlled anthropogenic activities and by lesser extent natural conditions. This paper reviews the various potable water sources, heavy metal concentration, and its associated health effects in Nigeria. The study found that surface water such as stream, river, lake; ground water including borehole and hand-dug well; rain water; and packaged water such as bottled and sachet are the major source of potable water. The dominant heavy metals found in potable water include iron, zinc, copper, chromium, lead, and manganese. The concentration of heavy metals like mercury, lead, cadmium, iron, cobalt, manganese, chromium, nickel, zinc, and copper often exceed the maximum permissible limit recommended by standard organization of Nigeria and World Health Organization. The concentration of heavy metals fluctuates in most states/geographical coverage depending on the type of potable water sources. To a large extent, industrialization causes heavy metals concentration to exceed the permissible limits. The high concentration reported in most locations could cause various disease conditions depending on the type of metal and level of exposure. This study also suggest possible treatment and mitigating measures to avoid such harmful effects.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  • Abbaspour N, Hurrel R, Kelishadi R (2014) Review on iron and its importance for human health. J Res Med Sci 19(2):164–174

    Google Scholar 

  • Abdus-Salam N, Bale RB, Taorid R, Adeniyi OO (2013) Studies of water and sediment quality of Owalla Dam, Osun State, Nigeria. Fountain J Nat Appl Sci 2(2):22–31

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ada FB, Ayotunde EO, Offem BO (2012) Surface and ground waters concentrations of metal elements in central Cross River State, Nigeria, and their suitability for fish culture. Int J Environ Sustain 1(2):9–20

    Google Scholar 

  • Adefemi SO (2013) Physicochemical and microbiological assessment of groundwater from Ijan-Ekiti South Western Nigeria. SWISS J Appl Sci 2(5):13–21

    Google Scholar 

  • Adefemi SO, Awokunmi EE (2010) Determination of physico-chemical parameters and heavy metals in water samples from Itaogbolu area of Ondo-State, Nigeria. Afr J Environ Sci Technol 4(3):145–148

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Adegbola AA, Adewoye AO (2012) Impact assessment of selected pollution sources on groundwater quality in wells in Gambari Community, Ogbomoso, Nigeria. Int J Mod Eng Res 2(5):3118–3122

    Google Scholar 

  • Adewumi DF, Daniyan IA, Adeodu AO (2014a) Physico-chemical properties of Ala-River, Akure Ondo State, Nigeria (a case study Ofala River in Akure, South Western Nigeria). J Phys Chem Sci 1(2):1–6

    Google Scholar 

  • Adewumi DF, Daniyan IA, Adeodu AO (2014b) Determination of heavy metals in water, fish and soil samples from Antau River in Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria: a case study of Antau River in Keffi, Nasarawa North Central Nigeria. Int J Sci Res 3(3):701–705

    Google Scholar 

  • Adindu RU, Igboekwe MU, Lebe N (2012) Groundwater mineralization analysis of Osisioma Local Government Area of Aba, Abia State, Nigeria. Am J Chem 2(3):121–125

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Afiukwa JN (2013) Evaluation and correlation study of heavy metals load in drinking water and update of water-related disease cases in Ebonyi State from 2001–2011. Am J Sci Ind Res 4(2):221–225

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Afolabi TA, Ogbuneke CC, Ogunkunle OA, Bamiro FO (2012) Comparative assessment of the potable quality of water from industrial, urban and rural parts of Lagos, Nigeria. Ife J Sci 14(2):221–232

    Google Scholar 

  • Agbalagba OE, Agbalagba OH, Ononugbo CP, Alao AA (2011) Investigation into the physico-chemical properties and hydrochemical processes of groundwater from commercial boreholes in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Afr J Environ Sci Technol 5(7):473–481

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Agedah EC, Ineyougha ER, Izah SC, Orutugu LA (2015) Enumeration of total heterotrophic bacteria and some physico-chemical characteristics of surface water used for drinking sources in Wilberforce Island, Nigeria. J Environ Treat Tech 3(1):28–34

    Google Scholar 

  • Akinyemi LP, Odunaike RK, Daniel DE, Alausa SK (2014) Physico-chemical parameters and heavy metals concentrations in Eleyele River in Oyo State South-West of Nigeria. Int J Environ Sci Toxicol 2(1):1–5

    Google Scholar 

  • Akoteyon IS (2012). Evaluation of groundwater quality using contamination index in parts of Alimosho, Lagos–Nigeria. Am Acad Sch Res J, vol 4(4)

  • Akpoborie IA, Ehwarimo A (2012) Quality of packaged drinking water produced in Warri Metropolis and potential implications for public health. J Environ Chem Ecotoxicol 4(11):195–202

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Amadi AN (2012) Quality assessment of Aba River using heavy metal pollution index. Am J Environ Eng 2(1):45–49

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Amori AA, Oduntan OO, Okeyode IC, Ojo SO (2013) Heavy metal concentration of groundwater deposits in Odeda region, Ogun state, Nigeria. E3 J Environ Res Manage 4(5):0253–0259

    Google Scholar 

  • Anake WU, Benson NU, Akinsiku AA, Ehi-Eromosele CO, Adeniyi IO (2014) Assessment of trace metals in drinking water and groundwater sources in Ota, Nigeria. Int J Sci Res Publ 4(5):1–4

    Google Scholar 

  • Angelova M, Asenova S, Nedkova V, Koleva-Kolarova R (2011) Copper in the human organism. Trakia J Sci 9(1):88–98

    Google Scholar 

  • Ayantobo OO, Awomeso JA, Oluwasanya GO, Bada BS, Taiwo AM (2014) Mining in Igun-ijesha, southwest Nigeria: impacts and implications for water quality. Am J Environ Sci 10(3):289–300

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Azab YA, Mandour RA, Ibrahim W, Kenawy I, El-Menshawy A, El-Zyat M (2010) Chemical evaluation of some heavy metals in surface drinking water in Dakahlyia Governorate and warning from their toxicity. Mansoura. J Forensic Med Clin Toxicol XVIII 2:69–80

    Google Scholar 

  • Azizullah A, Khattak MNK, Richter P, Häder D-P (2011) Water pollution in Pakistan and its impact on public health: a review. Environ Int 37:479–497

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Barakat MA (2011) New trends in removing heavy metals from industrial wastewater. Arab J Chem 4:361–377

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Barbier O, Jacquillet G, Tauc M, Cougnon M, Poujeol P (2005) Effect of heavy metals on, and handling by, the kidney. Nephron Physiol 99:105–110

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Beard JL (2001) Iron biology in immune function, muscle metabolism and neuronal functioning. J Nutr 131(2):568S–580S

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Bernard A (2008) Cadmium & its adverse effects on human health. Indian J Med Res 128(4):557–564

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Bhowmik D, Chiranjib KP, Kumar KPS (2010) A potential medicinal importance of zinc in human health and chronic disease. Int J Pharm Biomed Sci 1(1):05–11

    Google Scholar 

  • Borba CE, Guirardello R, Silva EA, Veit MT, Tavares CRG (2006) Removal of nickel (II) ions from aqueous solution by biosorption in a fixed bed column: experimental and theoretical breakthrough curves. Biochem Eng J 30:184–191

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Boustani F, Hojati M, Ebrahimzadeh S (2012) Assessment of nickel concentration in surface and groundwater of the Kowsar Dam Basin. World Acad Sci Eng Technol 6(3):16–19

    Google Scholar 

  • Burke DM, O’Byrne JP, Fleming PG, Borah D, Morris MA, Holmes JD (2011) Carbon nanocages as heavy metal ion adsorbents. Desalination 280:87–94

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Butu AW, Bichi AA (2013) Assessment of some heavy elements in Galma dam, Zaria, Nigeria. Int J Dev Sustain 2(2):686–696

    Google Scholar 

  • Butu AW, Iguisi EO (2013) Concentration of heavy metals in sediment of river Kubanni, Zaria, Nigeria. Compr J Environ Earth Sci 2(1):10–17

    Google Scholar 

  • Chasapis CT, Loutsidou AC, Spiliopoulou CA, Stefanidou ME (2012) Zinc and human health: an update. Arch Toxicol 86(4):521–534

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Cheung CW, Porter CF, McKay G (1997) Sorption kinetics for the removal of copper and zinc from effluents using bone char. Sep Purif Technol 19:55–64

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Chinedu SN, Nwinyi OC, Oluwadamisi AY, Eze VN (2011) Assessment of water quality in Canaanland, Ota, Southwest Nigeria. Agric Biol J North Am 4:577–583

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Chukwuma EC, Ogbu KN, Okonkwo IF (2013) Quality assessment of direct harvested rainwater in parts of Anambra State, Nigeria. Int J Agric Biosci 2(3):120–123

    Google Scholar 

  • Dabai MU, Bagudo BU, Jodi LM, Ocheni L (2013) Evaluation of some trace metal levels in the water, fish and aquatic plant in River Sokoto, North-Western Nigeria. Asian J Appl Sci 1(5):195–199

    Google Scholar 

  • Das KK, Das SN, Dhundasin SA (2008) Nickel, its adverse health effects & oxidative stress. Indian J Med Res 128:412–425

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • David TW, Awoh DK, Essa GA (2013) Investigation of heavy metals in drinking water (sachet and bottled) in ago-Iwoye and environs, Ijebu North lga, Ogun state, Nigeria. Sch J Biotechnol 2(1):1–6

    Google Scholar 

  • de Namor AFD, Gamouz AEI, Frangie S, Martinez V, Valiente L, Webb OA (2012) Turning the volume down on heavy metals using tuned diatomite. A review of diatomite and modified diatomite for the extraction of heavy metals from water. J Hazard Mater 241–242:14–31

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Denise EM, Udoh EI, Idada I (2014) Comparative study of heavy metals concentration in some water bodies of EKET and NSIT Ubium local government area of Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria. Adv Appl Sci Res 5(3):1–4

    Google Scholar 

  • Duru MKC, Nwanekwu KE, Adindu EA, Odika PC (2012) Heavy metal and bioload levels of Otamiri River, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. Arch Appl Sci Res 4(2):1002–1006

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ebiare E, Zejiao L (2010) Water quality monitoring in Nigeria; Case Study of Nigeria’s industrial cities. J Am Sci 6(4):22–28

    Google Scholar 

  • Ekpo FE, Agu NN, Udoakpan UI (2013a) Influence of heavy metals concentration in three common fish, sediment and water collected within quarry environment, Akamkpa L.G. Area, Cross River State, Nigeria. Eur J Toxicol Sci 3:1–11

    Google Scholar 

  • Ekpo IA, Agbor RB, Ekanem AP, Okpako EC, Inyang PI (2013b) Assessment of heavy metal status and bacteria population in municipal borehole water in landfill and non-landfill areas in Calabar municipality, cross river state, Nigeria. Int J Eng Appl Sci 2(4):31–41

    Google Scholar 

  • Elinge CM, Itodo AU, Peni IJ, Birnin-Yauri UA, Mbongo AN (2011) Assessment of heavy metals concentrations in bore-hole waters in Aliero community of Kebbi State. Adv Appl Sci Res 2(4):279–282

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Erah PO, Akujieze CN, Oteze GE (2002) The Quality of groundwater in Benin City: a baseline study on inorganic chemicals and microbial contaminants of health importance in boreholes and open wells. Trop J Pharm Res 1(2):75–82

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Eruola AO, Adedokun NA (2012) Analytical assessment of cadmium, lead and iron in hand dug wells of Ilaro, South-Western Nigeria. Glob J Sci Front Res Chem 12(6):39–43

    Google Scholar 

  • Eze SO, Madumere IC (2012) Physicochemical and microbiological analysis of water bodies in Uturu, Abia State-Nigeria. Asian J Nat Appl Sci 1(4):58–65

    Google Scholar 

  • Foroughi M, Najafi P, Toghiani S (2011) Trace elements removal from waste water by Ceratophyllum demersum. J Appl Sci Environ Manag 15(1):197–201

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Fraga CG, Oteiza PI (2002) Iron toxicity and antioxidant nutrients. Toxicology 180(1):23–32

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Fu F, Wang Q (2011) Removal of heavy metal ions from wastewaters: a review. J Environ Manag 92:407–418

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Galadima A, Garba ZN, Leke L, Almustapha MN, Adam IK (2011) Domestic water pollution among local communities in Nigeria-causes and consequences. Eur J Sci Res 52(4):592–603

    Google Scholar 

  • Hashim MA, Mukhopadhyay S, Sahu JN, Sengupta B (2011) Remediation technologies for heavy metal contaminated groundwater. J Environ Manag 92:2355–2388

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Henson MC, Chedrese PJ (2004) Endocrine disruption by cadmium, a common environmental toxicant with paradoxical effects on reproduction. Exp Biol Med 229:383–392

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Hong AH, Law PL, Onni SS, Mboh ABS (2013) Groundwater quality assessment for domestic and irrigation purposes in Yola, Adamawa State Northeastern Nigeria. Am J Eng Res 02(6):34–41

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Hosseinifard SJ, Aminiyan MM (2015) Hydrochemical characterization of groundwater quality for drinking and agricultural purpose: a case study in Rafsanjan plain, Iran. Water Qual Expo Health 7:531–544

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Idoko OM, Ologunorisa TE, Okoya AA (2012) Temporal variability of heavy metals concentration in rural groundwater of Benue State, Middle Belt, Nigeria. J Sustain Dev 5(2):2–16

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Idris MA, Kolo BG, Garba ST, Waziri I (2013) Pharmaceutical industrial effluent: heavy metal contamination of surface water in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. Bull Environ Pharm Life Sci 2(3):40–44

    Google Scholar 

  • Izah SC, Ineyougha ER (2015) A review of the microbial quality of potable water sources in Nigeria. J Adv Biol Basic Res 1(1):12–19

    Google Scholar 

  • Izah SC, Srivastav AL (2015) Level of arsenic in potable water sources in Nigeria and their potential health impacts: a review. J Environ Treat Tech 3(1):15–24

    Google Scholar 

  • Jeje JO, Oladepo KT (2014) Assessment of heavy metals of boreholes and hand dug wells in Ife North Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria. Int J Sci Technol 3(4):209–214

    Google Scholar 

  • Jomova K, Valko M (2011) Advances in metal-induced oxidative stress and human disease. Toxicology 283:65–87

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Kelepertzis E (2014) Investigating the sources and potential health risks of environmental contaminants in the soils and drinking waters from the rural clusters in Thiva area (Greece). Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 100:258–265

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Khan K, Lu Y, Khan H, Zakir S, Ihsanullah, Khan S, Khan AA, Wei L, Wang T (2013) Health risks associated with heavy metals in the drinking water of Swat, northern Pakistan. J Environ Sci 25(10):2003–2013

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Kolo BG, Waziri M (2012) Determination of some heavy metals in borehole water samples of selected motor parks in Maiduguri, Nigeria. Int J Basic Appl Chem Sci 2(3):18–20

    Google Scholar 

  • Krupanidhi S, Sreekumar A, Sanjeevi CB (2008) Copper & biological health. Indian J Med Res 128:448–461

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Kurniawan TA, Chan GYS, Lo WH, Babel S (2006) Physico-chemical treatment techniques for wastewater laden with heavy metals. Chem Eng J 118:83–98

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Lenntech (2014) EU’s drinking water standards. Council Directive 98/83/EC on the quality of water intended for human consumption. Adopted by the Council, on 3 November 1998: http://www.lenntech.com/periodic/elements/. Accessed 14 July 2014

  • Lieu PT, Heiskala M, Peterson PA, Yang Y (2002) The roles of iron in health and disease. Mol Aspects Med 22(1–2):1–87

    Google Scholar 

  • Lokeshappa B, Kandarp S, Vivek T, Anil KD (2012) Assessment of toxic metals in agricultural produce. Food Public Health 2(1):24–29

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Maduabuchi J-MU, Adigba EO, Nzegwu CN, Oragwu CI, Okonkwo IP, Orisakwe OE (2007) Arsenic and chromium in canned and non-canned beverages in Nigeria: a potential public health concern. Int J Environ Res Public Health 4(1):28–33

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Maitera ON, Barminas JT, Magili ST (2011) Determination of heavy metal levels in water and sediments of river Gongola in Adamawa State, Nigeria. J Emerg Trends Eng Appl Sci 2(5):891–896

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • McGregor DB, Baan RA, Partensky C, Rice JM, Wilbourn JD (2000) Evaluation of the carcinogenic risks to humans associated with surgical implants and other foreign bodies: a report of an IARC monographs programme meeting. Eur J Cancer 36:307–313

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Miller JR, Hudson-Edwards KA, Lechler PJ, Preston D, Macklin MG (2004) Heavy metal contamination of water, soil and produce within riverine communities of the Rıo Pilcomayo basin, Bolivia. Sci Total Environ 320:189–209

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Mogborukor JOA (2012) Domestic sewage disposal and quality of water from hand dug wells in Ughelli, Nigeria. AFRREV STECH Int J Sci Technol 1(3):112–125

    Google Scholar 

  • Muhammad S, Shah MT, Khan S (2011) Health risk assessment of heavy metals and their source apportionment in drinking water of Kohistan region, northern Pakistan. Microchem J 98:334–343

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Muhammad I, Ashiru S, Ibrahim ID, Salawu K, Muhammad DT, Muhammad NA (2014) Determination of some heavy metals in wastewater and sediment of artisanal gold local mining site of Abare Area in Nigeria. J Environ Treat Tech 1(3):174–182

    Google Scholar 

  • Musa JJ, Ahanonu JJ (2013) Quality assessment of shallow groundwater in some selected agrarian communities in Patigi Local Government Area, Nigeria. Int J Basic Appl Sci 01(03):548–563

    Google Scholar 

  • Musa OK, Shaibu MM, Kudamnya EA (2013) Heavy metal concentration in groundwater around Obajana and Its environs, Kogi State, North Central Nigeria. Am Int J Contemp Res 3(8):170–177

    Google Scholar 

  • Muta’aHellandendu J (2012) Health implications of water scarcity in Nigeria. Eur Sci J 8(18):111–117

    Google Scholar 

  • Naseem R, Tahir SS (2001) Removal of Pb(II) from aqueous solution by using bentonite as an adsorbent. Water Res 35:3982–3986

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ndimele PE (2012) The effects of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes [Mart.] Solms) infestation on the physico-chemistry, nutrient and heavy metal content of Badagry Creek and Ologe Lagoon, Lagos, Nigeria. J Environ Sci Technol 5:128–136

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ndimele PE, Jenyo-Oni A, Jibuike CC (2010a) Comparative toxicity of crude oil, dispersant and crude oil-plus-dispersant to Tilapia guineensis. Res J Environ Toxicol 4:13–22

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ndimele PE, Jenyo-Oni A, Ayodele AI, Jimoh AA (2010b) The phytoremediation of crude oil-polluted aquatic environment by water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes [Mart.] Solms). Afr J Livest Ext 8:48–52

    Google Scholar 

  • Ndimele PE, Kumolu-Johnson CA, Anetekhai MA (2011) The invasive aquatic macrophyte, water hyacinth {Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) solm-Laubach: Pontedericeae}: problems and prospects. Res J Environ Sci 5:509–520

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nduka JK, Orisakwe OE (2009) Effect of effluents from warri refinery petrochemical company WRPC on water and soil qualities of “contiguous host” and “impacted on communities” of Delta State, Nigeria. Open Environ Pollut Toxicol J 1:11–17

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Nnaji JC, Omotugba S (2014) Physico-chemical quality of drinking water in New Bussa, Niger State, Nigeria. Int Res J Pure Appl Chem 4(4):437–446

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nriagu J (2007) Zinc toxicity in humans. Elsevier, Ann Arbor, pp 1–7

    Google Scholar 

  • Nte FU, Esi EO, Edomi O (2013) Determination of water quality at orwell international oil and gas Nigeria limited, Rivers State, Nigeria. Int J Environ Monit Anal 1(6):302–306

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Nwaichi EO, James IO (2012) Groundwater quality assessment in selected Niger Delta communities in Nigeria. J. Environ Anal Toxicol 2:133. doi:10.4172/2161-0525.1000133

    Google Scholar 

  • Nwaichi EO, Monanu MO, Njoku OC (2013) Water quality assessment of rumuodomaya stream: chemical and biological studies. Res J Eng Appl Sci 2(1):29–34

    Google Scholar 

  • Nwankwoala HO, Udom GJ, Ugwu SA (2011) Some heavy metal investigations in groundwater sources in Yenagoa, Bayelsa state, Nigeria. J Appl Technol Environ Sanit 1(2):163–170

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Obunwo CC, Opurum IJ (2013) Evaluation and comparison of water quality parameters from fresh water surface streams and hand-dug wells in Isiokpo Community, Rivers State, Nigeria. J Nat Sci Res 3(13):42–45

    Google Scholar 

  • Ocheri MI, Odoma LA, Umar ND (2014) Groundwater quality in Nigerian urban areas: a review. Glob J Sci Front Res 14(3):35–46

    Google Scholar 

  • Odoemelam SA, Okorie DO, Oko IO (2013) Physicochemical parameters and heavy metal content of water, fish and sediments from cross river at Afikpo north local Government area of Ebonyi state, Nigeria. Biores Bull, No vol, pp 010–015

  • Oehmen A, Viegas R, Velizarov S, Reis MAM, Crespo JG (2006) Removal of heavy metals from drinking water supplies through the ion exchange membrane bioreactor. Desalination 199:405–407

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ogamba EN, Izah SC, Ogbogu MJ (2015a) Cadmium and Lead level in Eichhornia crassipes from River Nun, Niger Delta, Nigeria. J Adv Biol Basic Res 1(1):53–56

    Google Scholar 

  • Ogamba EN, Izah SC, Oribu T (2015b) Water quality and proximate analysis of Eichhornia crassipes from River Nun, Amassoma Axis, Nigeria. Res J Phytomed 1(1):43–48

    Google Scholar 

  • Ogamba EN, Izah SC, Toikumo BP (2015c) Water quality and levels of lead and mercury in Eichhornia crassipes from a tidal creek receiving abattoir effluent, in the Niger Delta, Nigeria. Cont J Environ Sci 9(1):13–25

    Google Scholar 

  • Ogamba EN, Seiyaboh EI, Izah SC, Ogbugo I, Demedongha FK (2015d) Water quality, phytochemistry and proximate constituents of Eichhornia crassipes from Kolo creek, Niger Delta, Nigeria. Int J Appl Res Technol 4(9):77–84

    Google Scholar 

  • Ogamba EN, Izah SC, Emaviwe D (2015e) Phytochemical assessment of Eichhornia crassipes from River Nun, Nigeria. Res J Phytomed 1(1):24–25

    Google Scholar 

  • Oguntona TS, Adedeji OO, Martins OC (2012) Contamination of sachet water produced within industrial area of Ikeja, Lagos Nigeria. Transnatl J Sci Technol 2(10):69–74

    Google Scholar 

  • Ohimain EI, Angaye TNC, Okiongbo KS (2013) Removal of iron, coliforms and acidity from ground water obtained from shallow aquifer using trickling filter method. J Environ Sci Eng A2:349–355

    Google Scholar 

  • Ohimain EI, Angaye TNC, Oduah AA (2014) Biotreatment of acidic and high iron containing groundwater for aquaculture using plantain (Musa paradisiaca) tissues. Int J Eng Sci Innov Technol 3(5):121–126

    Google Scholar 

  • Ohwo O, Abotutu A (2014) Access to potable water supply in nigerian cities evidence from Yenagoa Metropolis. Am J Water Resour 2(2):31–36

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Oller AR, Costa M, Oberdörster G (1997) Carcinogenicity assessment of selected nickel compounds. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 143:152–166

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Olorunfemi DI, Ofomata CR, Alimba CG (2013) Cytogenotoxicity assessment of a university borehole water supply using the Allium cepa test. J Sci Res Dev 14:25–34

    Google Scholar 

  • Oludare A, Sikiru S (2012) Microbiological, physicochemical and mineral quality of borehole water in Ijebu land, Ogun state, Nigeria. Int J Sci Adv Technol 2(1):23–30

    Google Scholar 

  • Omotoriogun TC, Uyi OO, Egbon IN (2012) The physicochemical characteristics of Ibiekuma River Ekpoma, Nigeria. J Wetl Ecol 6:01–06

    Google Scholar 

  • Opaluwa OD, Aremu MO, Ogbo LO, Magaji JI, Odiba IE, Ekpo ER (2012) Assessment of heavy metals in water, fish and sediments from UKE Stream, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Curr World Environ 7(2):213–220

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Osibanjo O, Majolagbe AO (2012) Physicochemical quality assessment of groundwater based on land use in Lagos city, Southwest, Nigeria. Chem J 2(2):79–86

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Osredkar J, Sustar N (2011) Clinical toxicology copper and zinc, biological role and significance of copper/zinc imbalance. J Clinic Toxicol S:3. doi:10.4172/2161-0495.S3-001

    Google Scholar 

  • Oyhakilome GI, Aiyesanmi AF, Akharaiyi FC (2012) Water quality assessment of the Owena multi-purpose dam, Ondo State, Southwestern Nigeria. J Environ Prot 3:14–25

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Paulino AT, Minasse FAS, Guilherme MR, Reis AV, Muniz EC, Nozaki J (2006) Novel adsorbent based on silkworm chrysalides for removal of heavy metals from wastewaters. J Colloid Interface Sci 301:479–487

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Prashanth L, Kattapagari KK, Chitturi RT, Baddam VRR, Prasad LK (2015) A review on role of essential trace elements in health and disease. J Dr NTR Univ Health Sci 4(2):75–78

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Raji MIO, Ibrahim YKE, Ehinmidu JO (2010) Physico-chemical characteristics and heavy metal levels in drinking water sources in Sokoto metropolis in North-western Nigeria. J Appl Sci Environ Manag 14(3):81–85

    Google Scholar 

  • Rehnberg GL, Hein JF, Carter SD, Linko RS, Laskey JW (1982) Chronic ingestion of Mn3O4 by rats: tissue accumulation and distribution of manganese in two generations. J Toxicol Environ Health 9:175–188

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Richard MG (2009) Using sea shells to remove heavy metals from water. http://www.treehugger.com/natural-sciences/using-sea-shells-to-remove-heavy-metals-from-water.html. Accessed 28 July 2014

  • Roohani N, Hurrell R, Kelishadi R, Schulin R (2013) Zinc and its importance for human health: an integrative review. J Res Med Sci 18(2):144–157

    Google Scholar 

  • Rowel C (2012) Using banana to remove metals from polluted water: an apeeling option. http://www.mindthesciencegap.org/2012/03/19/using-banana-peels-to-remove-metals-from-polluted-water-an-apeeling-option/. Accessed 28 July 2014

  • Samuel AO (2013) Level of selected metals in water, sediment and fish samples from Itapaji Dam, South-Western, Nigeria. Am Chem Sci J 3(4):459–467

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Seilkop SK, Oller AR (2003) Respiratory cancer risks associated with low-level nickel exposure: an integrated assessment based on animal, epidemiological, and mechanistic data. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 37:173–190

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Sevcikova M, Modra H, Slaninova A, Svobodova Z (2011) Metals as a cause of oxidative stress in fish: a review. Vet Med 56(11):537–546

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Shortt R, Boelee E, Matsuno Y, Faubert G, Madramootoo C, van der Hoek W (2003) Evaluation of thermotolerant coliforms and salinity in the four available water sources of an irrigated region of Southern Sri Lanka. Irrig Drain 52:133–146

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Standard organization of Nigeria (SON) (2007) Nigerian standard for drinking water quality. Nigerian industrial standard, Lagos

    Google Scholar 

  • Sternberg SPK, Dom RW (2002) Cadmium removal using Cladophora in batch, semi-batch and flow reactors. Bioresour Technol 81:249–255

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ubuoh EA, Akhionbare WN, Akhionbare SMO, Ikhile CI (2012) Evaluation of the spatial variation of rainwater quality in parts of Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria using Chloropleth Map. http://www.abrj.org, vol 1(2), pp 10–28

  • Uffia ID, Ekpo FE, Etim DE (2013) Influence of heavy metals pollution in borehole water collected within abandoned battery industry, Essien Udim, Nigeria. J Environ Sci Water Resour 2(1):022–026

    Google Scholar 

  • Ukpong EC, Okon BB (2013) Comparative analysis of public and private borehole water supply sources in Uruan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. Int J Appl Sci Technol 3(1):76–91

    Google Scholar 

  • Uwah EI, Busari WR, Sayi A (2014) Physicochemical and bacteriological analyses of sachets water samples in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria. IOSR J Appl Chem 6(6):52–56

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Vivien C, Caleb AB, Lekwot VE (2012) Public health effects of effluent discharge of Kaduna Refinery into River Romi. Greener J Med Sci 2(3):064–069

    Google Scholar 

  • Volesky B (2003) Sorption and biosorption. BV Sorbex Inc., St. Lambert

    Google Scholar 

  • Watson TD (1998) Diet and skin disease in dogs and cats. J Nutr 128(12 Suppl):2783S–2789S

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Wogu MD, Okaka CE (2011) Pollution studies on Nigerian rivers: heavy metals in surface water of Warri river, Delta State. J Biodivers Environ Sci 1(3):7–12

    Google Scholar 

  • World Health Organization (WHO) (2011) Guideline for drinking water quality, 4th edn. World Health Organization, Geneva

    Google Scholar 

  • Yakubu S (2013) Assessment of water quality of hand-dug wells in Zaria LGA of Kaduna State, Nigeria. Int J Eng Sci 2(11):01–04

    Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

    Sylvester Chibueze Izah

  2. Traffic Engineering and Safety Division, Central Road Research Institute (CRRI-CSIR), New Delhi, India

    Neelima Chakrabarty

  3. Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, India

    Arun Lal Srivastav

Authors
  1. Sylvester Chibueze Izah
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Neelima Chakrabarty
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. Arun Lal Srivastav
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Sylvester Chibueze Izah.

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Izah, S.C., Chakrabarty, N. & Srivastav, A.L. A Review on Heavy Metal Concentration in Potable Water Sources in Nigeria: Human Health Effects and Mitigating Measures. Expo Health 8, 285–304 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12403-016-0195-9

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Revised:

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12403-016-0195-9

Keywords

Search

Navigation