INVESTIGATION OF TOXIC HEAVY METALS (HG, CD, AS, MN) IN MODIBBO ADAMA UNIVERSITY HOSTELS WASTE WATER
Abstract
Wastewater from university hostels contains various contaminants that pose risks to human health and the environment when discharged untreated. This study investigated the concentrations of toxic heavy metals: mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), and manganese (Mn) in wastewater from selected hostels at Modibbo Adama University, Yola. Wastewater samples were collected from five hostel discharge points over a four-week period. Samples were digested using standard acid digestion methods and analyzed for heavy metal content using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Physicochemical parameters including pH, temperature, and conductivity were also measured. The results were compared with WHO and FEPA effluent discharge limits. Preliminary findings indicated varying levels of heavy metal contamination across the sampling points. Manganese showed the highest concentration, while mercury levels were detected in trace amounts. Some metals exceeded permissible limits, suggesting potential risks to aquatic ecosystems and groundwater quality if the wastewater infiltrates soil or nearby water bodies. The study concludes that hostel wastewater is a potential source of heavy metal pollution on campus. Regular monitoring and installation of basic treatment systems are recommended to reduce environmental and health risks. This work provides baseline data for university management and environmental agencies to develop wastewater management strategies for student residential areas.
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