Exploration of Heavy Metal Levels and their Possible Health Implications in Selected Rivers within Nasarawa West, Nigeria

This research investigated heavy metals content and their potential health problems in some rivers across Nasarawa west, Nigeria. The mean concentration of Zn was recorded as 0.32 mg/L which was lower than the limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO), USEPA, and EU. Cu with mean of 0.03 mg/L was also lower than limits set by the WHO, USEPA, and EU. Fe with mean of 1.25 mg/L are found higher than limits prescribed by the WHO, USEPA, and EU. Cd with mean of 0.01 mg/L are lower than limits set by the WHO, USEPA, and EU. Pb with mean of 0.01 mg/L are lower than limits set by the WHO, USEPA, and EU. Lastly as with mean of 0.01 mg/L are equal to limits set by the WHO, USEPA, and EU. The values for validation parameters are low indicating minimal variability and uncertainty in our measurements, signifying high precision in measuring instruments and the tested samples. The pH measurement of all the samples proved acidic. Based on the elevated values of iron (Fe) and arsenic (As) recorded in this study, regular monitoring and treatment of drinking water sources are essential to ensure compliance with regulatory limits and to provide iron and arsenic-free as well as other metal-free drinking water to the public within the investigated location.