Assessment of Physicochemical Properties and Heavy Metal Contamination of Soils from selected Dumpsites in Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63561/jber.v3i1.1189Keywords:
Soil Contamination, Heavy Metals, Dumpsites, Environmental Pollution, AbujaAbstract
Soil contamination from indiscriminate waste disposal is a growing environmental challenge in developing regions such as Nigeria. This study assessed the physicochemical properties and heavy metal concentrations of soils from selected dumpsites Kuje Road, Abattoir, and Phase III in Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja, with Passo serving as a control site. Soil samples were collected at a depth of 0–30 cm and analyzed for pH, moisture content, organic matter, total nitrogen, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and texture, following standard procedures. Heavy metals including cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Results revealed that soil pH ranged from 5.65 to 6.60, indicating slightly acidic conditions across all sites. All soils were classified as sandy loam. Organic matter and moisture content were highest at Kuje Road (2.20% and 2.60%, respectively), while Passo had the lowest values. Heavy metal analysis showed that Kuje Road had the highest concentrations of all measured metals Cd (3.00 mg/kg), Cr (218.25 mg/kg), Mn (240.75 mg/kg), Pb (79.75 mg/kg), and Zn (265.75 mg/kg) followed by Abattoir and Phase III, while Passo exhibited the lowest contamination levels. The elevated metal concentrations, particularly at Kuje Road and Abattoir, indicate significant anthropogenic influence from mixed solid waste and industrial effluents. These findings suggest potential ecological and health risks due to the accumulation of toxic metals in soils near active dumpsites. The study underscores the urgent need for improved waste management practices, soil remediation, and continuous environmental monitoring to safeguard public health and ensure sustainable land use in Gwagwalada and similar urban communities
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