Impact of Dumpsites on the Quality of Soil and Groundwater in Satellite Towns of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria

BACKGROUND. Urbanization, industrialization and changes in consumption patterns have compounded the problem of solid waste management in Nigeria. Poor waste management threatens the well-being and health of the local population, particularly those living adjacent to dumpsites. OBJECTIVES. An assessment of the impact of dumpsites in a satellite town of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria was carried out to determine the level of biophysical/chemical parameters (pH, temperature, conductivity, nutrients (calcium and magnesium), heavy metals (lead, chromium, zinc), and microbial burden) on the quality of soil and groundwater and their impact on health and the environment. METHODS. Soil and ground water samples were collected in four different dumpsites (Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje and Azhatta) with reference samples taken from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and taken to the laboratory for biophysical/chemical analysis using standard methods. RESULTS. The results were compared with the national and World Health Organization (WHO) standard limits for soil and water respectively. Except for zinc, the average concentrations for heavy metals in the soil samples were higher in all four dumpsites than the permissible levels. Soil and water parameters that exceed the standard limits pose significant health and environment risks to nearby residents. CONCLUSIONS. There is a need for raising the awareness of residents living close to dumpsites and those who use the well or nearby streams for domestic activities on the need to carry out adequate water treatment prior to its use.