ANALYSIS OF PHYSIOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF WATER IN JEGA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KEBBI STATE, NIGERIA

Water is an essential natural resource that sustains life, economic development, and ecosystem stability. However, increasing anthropogenic activities such as agriculture, urbanization, and small-scale industrial operations have contributed to the deterioration of surface water quality in many developing regions, including Northwestern Nigeria. This study assessed the physicochemical parameters of surface water in Jega Local Government Area, Kebbi State. Four representative sampling points Gulbin Gada, Mashayar Kura, Mashayar D/Godi, and Mashayar D/Kale were selected along the Jega River, focusing on areas influenced by human activities. One water sample was collected from each site and analyzed according to World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) standards. Key parameters examined included pH, electrical conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), temperature, and major ions such as Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Na⁺, K⁺, Cl⁻, CO₃²⁻, HCO₃⁻, NO₃⁻, and NH₃. Results showed pH values (6.60–6.89) were within WHO and FAO limits. EC ranged from 185.6 µS/cm to 231.1 µS/cm, indicating low salinity and compliance with permissible standards. DO ranged from 4.5–7.0 mg/L, with Gada and D/Godi slightly below the recommended minimum of 5 mg/L. BOD values were high (22.8–29.0 mg/L), exceeding acceptable limits and indicating significant organic pollution. Water temperature (26–28°C) was typical of tropical rivers. Although most parameters met permissible levels for domestic and irrigation use, elevated BOD, nitrate, and EC suggested localized contamination from agricultural runoff, domestic waste, and sand excavation. The study concludes that while Jega River water is generally suitable for agricultural purposes, continuous monitoring is essential to prevent further degradation and support sustainable water resource management.