Public Health Risks Associated with Physicochemical and Microbiological Contamination of Drinking Water Sources in Akure Metropolis, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Unsafe drinking water remains a major environmental health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in rapidly urbanizing communities where residents depend on groundwater and commercially packaged water for domestic use. This study assessed the physicochemical and microbiological quality of drinking water sources and their associated public health risks in Akure Metropolis, Southwestern Nigeria. A laboratory-based cross-sectional study was conducted using forty-five (45) water samples collected from wells, boreholes, and sachet water in three selected communities (Oba-Ile, Oke-Ijebu, and Aule). Physicochemical parameters, including temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and turbidity, were determined using standard laboratory methods, while microbiological quality was assessed through total viable bacterial counts, culture techniques, Gram staining, and biochemical identification of bacterial isolates. The findings showed that most physicochemical parameters complied with World Health Organization (WHO) drinking-water quality guidelines, although elevated turbidity was observed in some well and borehole water samples. Microbiological analysis revealed that well water had the highest bacterial contamination, followed by borehole water, whereas sachet water exhibited the best microbiological quality. Coliform bacteria, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., and Enterobacter spp. were isolated from several untreated water samples, indicating faecal contamination and a potential risk of waterborne diseases. These findings suggest that despite generally acceptable physicochemical characteristics, microbiological contamination of untreated groundwater remains a significant public health concern in the study area. Regular water quality monitoring, improved sanitation practices, protection of groundwater sources, and appropriate water treatment interventions are recommended to reduce exposure to waterborne pathogens and improve access to safe drinking water in Akure Metropolis.