Evaluation of Physicochemical Parameters and Water Quality Index (WQI) in Green River, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Abstract
This study evaluated the physicochemical parameters and Water Quality Index (WQI) of the Green River in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, across wet and dry seasons to determine its suitability for domestic and agricultural use. Physicochemical parameters including pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids, biochemical oxygen demand, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient concentrations were analyzed following WHO and Nigerian Industrial Standards. Results indicated significant seasonal variations, with acidic pH values (4.38–6.61) and consistently low dissolved oxygen (<5 mg/L), suggesting ecological stress. Elevated phosphate levels (up to 6.06 mg/L) indicated potential eutrophication, while chloride and conductivity values reflected anthropogenic influence. The WQI values varied from 41.1 to 65.1, with December showing the highest water quality and March the lowest, WQI values classified the river water as ranging from poor to very poor, particularly during the dry season. Furthermore, heavy metal risk assessments revealed concerning hazard quotients and cancer risk values for cadmium, lead, and arsenic. The findings highlight the urgent need for improved environmental management and pollution mitigation strategies to safeguard water quality and human health.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Udoh Nkpouto Frederick, Udotong Uduak Friday, Shaibu Eneojo Solomon, Edu James Inam

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