Analysis of Trace Metals in Some Drinking Water Sources Around Odugbo, Apa Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria

Background and Objective: The inadequacy of quality water in Odugbo Town, Benue State is almost endemic, and this study was conducted to investigate the trace metal level in some selected drinking water in Odugbo, Apa Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: The 625 samples of the various drinking water sources in the various villages of Nigeria were obtained, and trace metal analysis was carried out using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometric method. The AAS traces the metal determination of Al, Fe, Ba, Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr, As, Ni, Cy, Hg, and Cd. The t-test analysis was conducted using SPSS Version 25, with a significance level of p<0.05, and descriptive statistics including means, standard deviation, and p-value. Results: The analysis of water samples showed varying concentrations of trace metals including: Al, Fe, Ba, Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr, As, Ni, Cy, Hg, and Cd. The Al, Cr, As, Ni, and Cd levels exceeded the NIS/SON:977-2017 standards for potable water. Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for stricter enforcement of water quality regulations, and improved water treatment processes to ensure safe drinking water, in line with WHO standards.