Journal of Environment and Waste Management

Vol. 7(1), pp. 345-355, September, 2020. © www.premierpublishers.org, ISSN: 0274-

6999

Research Article

Effects of Metropolitan Land Use on Water Quality

in Zing Local Government Area, Taraba State,
Nigeria.
Daniel Godwin Shenpam, PhD
Department of Geography, College of Education, Zing, Taraba State, Nigeria
E-mail: shenpamgodwin@yahoo.com; phone: +2348167876732

The aim of this study is to determine the effects of Zing metropolitan land use on Zing River
water quality in Taraba State, Nigeria. Water samples were collected from three sample points
and analyzed to determine the level of pollution of water in the River. Parameters such as
temperature, pH, turbidity, TDS, Nitrate, Nitrite, phosphate, chloride, fluoride, iron, zinc and E-
Coli, were considered. Water samples were purposively and carefully select and collected to
ensure that the samples were upstream, within and downstream of the land use types
respectively. The study adopted descriptive statistics. Result showed that the major sources
of pollution in Zing Rivers are agricultural run-off, run-off from urban center, local craft
industrial effluents and discharges from commercial and residential houses. This may lead to
water borne/Water related diseases in the study area. The finding showed that the variety and
level of pollution in Zing River is related to the size of population and land use activities going
on at various parts of the metropolis from where it receives run-off and pollutants.

Keywords: Surface, Water Quality, Metropolitan, Zing, Land use, River.

INTRODUCTION

The land use within the watershed has great impacts on
the water quality of rivers. The water quality of rivers may
degrade due to the changes in the land cover patterns
within the watershed as human activities increase.
Changes in the land cover and land management
practices have been regarded as the key influencing
factors behind the alteration of the hydrological system,
which lead to the change in runoff as well as the water
qualit.( Juan et al, 2013)
Water pollution is one of the several critical issues facing
the world in both developed and developing countries.
Surface water resources around the world are under
increasing threats of pollution especially rivers (Mul et
al. 2015). The quality of water resources is affected by
natural and anthropogenic activities (Matshakeni 2016)
which may render it less valuable for human use.
affects the services provided by the riparian ecosystem
services (Chu et al. 2013). Anthropogenic activities such
as agriculture, deforestation and urbanization have been
identified as the main drivers of land use and land cover
change which affects the quality of water bodies (Li et
al. 2014). These activities singularly or jointly impact the
quality of water resources. The land use, therefore, within
a watershed has a great impact on the water quality and
quantity of rivers (Li et al. 2014).
The knowledge of the relationship between land use and
water quality of rivers helps in identifying threats to water
quality. Identifying this relationship is relevant for effective
and sustainable surface water quality management
especially in minimizing the pollutant loads in the water
body (Chu et al. 2013).

Studies have shown that natural and human activities have Surface water pollution remains a major problem
resulted in land use and land cover (LULC) changes which worldwide, caused by both natural processes and
Shenpam DG 346
anthropogenic activities {Noori et al., 2010). Evaluation of
surface water quality in drinking water sources is important
as they can be one of the main pathways for the
dissemination of toxic chemicals and pathogenic
microorganisms. Identifying the source(s) of contamination
and developing appropriate management strategies is
essential to minimizing potential public health risks. The
surface water quality in a region can be affected by both
point and nonpoint sources of pollution (Lodder et
al.,2010).
The quality of any body of surface or ground water is a
function of either natural or human influences or both.
Without human influences, water quality would be
determined by the weathering of bed-rock, minerals, the
atmospheric processes of evapor-transpiration and
deposition of dust and salt by wind, natural leaching of
organic matter and nutrients from soil, hydrological factors
that lead to run-off, biological processes within the aquatic
environment that can alter the physical and chemical
composition of water. Globally, the most prevalent water
quality problem is eutrophication, a result of high-nutrient
loads (mainly phosphorus and nitrogen), which
substantially impairs beneficial uses of water. Major
nutrient sources include: agricultural run-off, domestic
sewage, industrial effluents and atmospheric input from
fossils fuel and bush burning (UN water, 2011).
Water quality index (WQI) is a mathematical tool which has
the ability to provide a single number for the large
quantities of water data in a comprehensive manner
(stambuk-giljanovic, 1999). Therefore, it is a simple tool for
decision making on the quality and possible uses of a
given water body (Bordalo et al., 2007). Physical
measurements are those that include water temperature,
depth, flow-velocity, flow-rate and turbidity. These are all
useful in analyzing how pollutants are transported and
mixed in the water environments, and can be related to
habitat requirements for fish and other aquatic wildlife. For
instance, some fish have specific temperature
requirements, and cannot tolerate water that is either too
cold or too hot. Chemical measurements include a wide
range of chemicals and chemical properties. Most water
chemistry tests measure concentration, defined as
milligrams of chemical per liter of water (Mg/l). Even the
purest water has countless chemicals and it would be
impossible to measure them all (Bordalo et al., 2007).
Waste management is a major problem in most developing
nations of the world including Nigeria (Taiwo, 2011).
Indiscriminate disposal of municipal wastes remains a
major threat to surface water pollution in Nigeria. In most
cases, sewage and waste water from homes are routed
into the rivers and streams. Jaji et al. (2007) found
elevated water quality parameters in some sampling
locations of Ogun River. These were partly attributed to the
activities of abattoir located close to the River at a notable
market in Abeokuta metropolis. The work of Arimoro et al.
(2007) on the impact of sawmill activities on the water
quality of River Benin reported high BOD and low DO
values at the discharge point of the wastes into the River.
The impact of point source pollution from sewage
treatment oxidation pond on a receiving stream was
studied by Ogunfowokan et al. (2005). The researchers
observed significant elevation of water indices such as pH,
BOD, nitrate, phosphate and TSS. It is well known that
oxygen depletion in water bodies could cause fish death
while increase in BOD signifies high load of organic matter.
Also, organic matter decomposition in surface water
produced inorganic nutrients such as ammonia, nitrate and
phosphorus with resultant effects of eutrophication and
other serious ecological problems of such water body
(Ogunfowokan et al., 2005). Taiwo (2010) has also
observed high water quality parameters of a stream in
Abeokuta due to direct discharge of poultry wastes into the
stream. The use of pesticides and fertilizer for bumper food
production is a well-known policy of several Governments
all over the world. However, agriculture remains the major
source of nitrate and phosphate pollution of surface water.
Nitrate in drinking water is detrimental to infant health due
to the disease known as methemoglobineamia (Taiwo,
2010).
This study is aimed at determining the land use/ types and
how they affect the water quality of river of Zing in Zing
local government
The Study Area
The study was conducted in Zing local government area,
of Taraba state, Nigeria. Zing local government area lies
between latitude 8o 45’ and 9o 10’ N and longitude 11o35’
and 11o 50’E. It is bounded to the east and north by Mayo-
belwa and Jada local government areas of Adamawa state
and to the west and south by Yorro local government area
of Taraba state. It has land area of 867km 2 and a
population of 127,362 inhabitants with an annual growth
rate of 3.0 percent, (NPC, 2006). Zing local government
has ten (10) political wards. The traditional authority is the
“kpanti Zing” who also serves as the custodian of the
culture of the people. The predominant or major tribe in the
study area is the Mumuye. Other minor tribes are Kuteb,
Hausa, Yandang, Igbo among others.
Climate, Vegetation, Soil and Relief
The climate of the area is typically a tropical climate
marked by dry and rainy seasons. The mean annual
rainfall of the area ranges from 819-1761mm. It is spread
over seven months, April to October. The onset of the rain
in April is in low amount but, increases gradually reaching
a maximum in August. The amount drops gradually with
cessation in October.
The natural vegetation of Zing is savannah grassland belt,
particularly in Guinea savannah sub- region, characterized
by scattered, deciduous trees with broad leaves and tall
grasses in some areas. The major soil types of the study

area are the hydromorphic and ferruginous tropical soils.
The soil is highly influenced by local variation in altitude
and human interference. The soil type is a mixture of loamy
and sandy, and on the hilly terrain we have deep loamy
soils found between rocks. Along the banks of streams and
rivers are clay loam soils which support the growth of a
variety of crops in the area. In terms of relief configuration,
the study area can be categorized in to two zones; high
land range mountain and low lands. The high land occupy
the southern region stretching from west to south in chains
of mountain with elevation ranging from an average of
1,800-2,400 meter high forming the Atlantica, shebshi and
Adamawa Massifs ranges. The low land which occupies
about 60% of the region hosts most of the settlement in the
region.
Population and Socio-economic Activities
Zing local government has a population of 127,363 as at
the 2006 census. Noted for it’s rich agricultural
endowments some of the agricultural produce found in
zing include Yam, Bambaranut, Guinea corn, cows, sheep,
goats, pigs and poultry which constitute the livestock
resources of the area. Due to its largely cosmopolitan set
up, zing local government is a suitable area for small and
medium scale industrial enterprise. It is a potential area for
agro-allied ventures most especially meat and milk
processing, flour and grains mills, stone crushing/
polishing, ceramics and so on. Zing local government has
a large concentration of agricultural practice which
involves the production of varieties of crops and live
stocking with cottage (local) industry concentration
especially in area of local drinks production, cake baking,
meat processing, and milk processing and so on. Most of
these establishments empty their wastes into zing streams
and rivers through point sources or run-off (non-point
source), thereby affecting the water quality rivers or
streams in the area.
Land Use
Two major land use types were classified in the study area
namely built- up (comprising of roads, highways, buildings,
and other paved surfaces), cultivation (Comprising of
cultivated farmlands.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
In this research work, data were collected from both the
primary and secondary sources. A primary source of data
is a direct report of an individual who actually observed or
participated in it (Meredith et al. 2007 in Daniel, 2016). In
this research work, data were got through direct
observation. Water sample were collected and analyzed.
Secondary sources are the publication of different kind
such as textbooks, journals, magazines, newspapers and
so on. Encyclopedia, library, internet and other source of
documented materials were used.
J. Environ. Waste Manag. 347
Water Sample Collection
The study was carried out during rainy and dry season to
determine the effect of metropolitan land use on surface
water quality of Zing local government area; (September,
2019 and January, 2020). Three sampled points with three
samples each were purposively and carefully selected and
collected to ensure that the samples were collected
upstream of land use type, within the land use type and
down - stream respectively. As a stream drain from the
earth surface, it carries the residues from land. Run off
from different land use type may be enriched with different
kind of contaminants. E.g. run off from agricultural land use
may be enriched with nutrients and sediments. Likewise,
run off from highly developed urban areas may be enriched
with rubber fragments, heavy metals as well as sodium
and sulphate. As a result, the quantity and quality of water
available for run-off and stream flow as well as the
physical, chemical, and biological processes in receiving
water bodies may be affected. There are four kinds of
human activities carried out in the study area: the pig meat
processing area in sabon-layi, the local drink processing
area in Angua-lafiya, domestic pig range house area in
both the two zones and the grinding mill which are elevated
area that drained their waste products with run off through
the main streams that pass across the region. The General
Hospital and Zing motor park borders this area (zone) to
the east. The major concern of significance to the
contributions in the river are grinding Mills, local drink
processing company, dog meat processing company, pig
range houses and refuse disposal to the river channels.
Channel flows were selected based on the land use types.
The points where channels conveyed water from the land
use type drain into the river (stream) were taken as a
reference point to assess changes in water quality arising
from land use type. Water sample were randomly picked
from each sample point. The sample points were Angua-
lafiya (x1), Sabon-line (x2) and Angua-mayanka (x3)
respectively.
Sample analysis
Water quality parameters include temperature, pH,
Turbidity, Total dissolved solid, were determined using
portable field electronic meters. Kasagua meter model UC
– 23 was used to determine pH values.
Measurement of Acidity or Alkalinity of the Samples
(pH)
This was analysed using Wagtech WE30200 pH meter.
The water samples pH test was conducted by dipping the
electrode into the water sample at about 2 – 3 cm, stirred
once and reading allowed to stabilize. Calibration of the pH
meter was conducted on daily basis at three points using
pH 4, 7 and 10 standard solutions.
Shenpam DG 348
Turbidity
Turbidity was measured using Wagtech WE30140 Potalab
turbidity meter. The turbidity measurement was conducted
by placing the meter on a flat surface, filling a clean sample
vial to mark, then placed well in a sample and the vial
covered with light shield cap. The display reading was
recorded as sample turbidity. Calibration of the turbidity
meter was conducted on a daily basis using Cal 1:
800NTU; followed by Cal 2: 100NTU; then Cal 3: 20NTU
and finally Cal 4: 0.02NTU standards.
Nitrate/Nitrite
Nitrate was determined via reduction method and the
resulting nitrite determined by reaction with sulphanilic
acid in the presence of N- (1-naphathyl)-ethylene diamine
to form reddish dye. Detection limit of the method is 0 – 20
mg/l. The reduction stage was carried out by adding
unique Zinc-based nitra test powder and nitri test tablet to
20 ml of the water sample to be tested in a nitra test tube.
Nitra test tablet aids rapid flocculation after one minute
contact period and inverting the tube content 3 or 4 times.
Then 10 ml of the clear solution was carefully decanted
and nitricol tablet was added, crushed and mixed to
dissolve. The content was mixed and allowed to stand for
10 minutes to allow full colour development. The intensity
of colour produced is directly proportional to the nitrate
concentration and was measured using Wagtech
WE10441 portable microbiological and physic-chemical
water quality testing laboratory (Potalab) photometer
7100. The percentage (%) transmittance obtained was
converted to concentration with aid of nitra test calibration
chart and mg/L NO3 obtained by multiplying the result by
a factor of 4.4. The photometer was calibrated with the
water sample to be tested.
Fluoride
Fluoride was analysed by adding Zirconyl chloride and
Eriochrome cyanine reagents tablets to a 10 ml sample of
the water in acid solution to form a red coloured complex.
This colour is destroyed by fluoride ion to give a pale
yellow. The content was mixed and allowed to stand for 5
min for full colour development. The colour produced is
directly proportional to the fluoride concentration and was
measured using Wagtech WE10441 Potalab photometer
7100 at 570 nm wavelength. Percentage (%)
transmittance obtained was converted to mg/l F with the
aid of fluoride calibration chart. The photometer was
calibrated with the water sample to be tested. The
detection limit of the method is 0 - 1.5 mg/l.
Iron
Iron was measured by using Wagtech spectrophotometer.
The photometer is calibrated with the water sample to be
tested. The test was simply carried out by adding iron
tablet (alkaline thioglycolate) to a 10 ml sample of the
water sample. The content was allowed to stand for 1min
to allow full colour development. The colour produced is
directly proportional to the iron concentration and is
measured using the Wagtech photometer at 570 nm
wavelength. The percentage (%) transmittance obtained
was converted to mg/L Fe with aid of iron calibration chart.
Laboratory Based Analysis
Collected water samples were preserved for laboratory
based analyses of nutrients and heavy metal. Samples for
heavy metals analyses were collected in acid rinse glass
and plastic bottles and stored at room temperature in
Modibo Adama University of Technology (MUATECH),
Yola, Chemistry Department Laboratory. Nutrients that
were determined in the samples included nitrate, nitrite
and total phosphate. In the laboratory, analyses were
performed according to procedures for water and water
analysis (Greenberg et al, 1992 in John, Robin, Andrew
Sandra, 2013). Analyses were performed in MUATECH
Chemistry Laboratory. Table 1 shows the parameters that
were analysed and the FEPA (now Federal Ministry of
Environment) permissible limit standard. Analyses were
conducted for rainy and dry season (September, 2019 and
January, 2020).

Table 1: shows FEPA permissible limit

S/N Parameters Unit FEPA Limits
A Physical
1 Temperature Celsius Ambient
2 pH - 6.5 – 8.5
3 Turbidity NTU mg/1 1.0
4 TDS Mg/1 500
B Chemical
5 Nitrate Mg/1 10.0
6 Nitrite Mg/1 1.0
7 Phosphate Mg/1 5.0
8 Chloride Mg/1 1.0
9 Fluoride Mg/1 0.00 (WHO 1.5)
C Heavy metal
9 Iron Mg/1 10.0
10 Zinc Mg/1 5.0
11 Faecal coliform Mg/1 0.00
12 Fluoride Mg/1
Sources: Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) now Federal Ministry of Environment, 2018.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Water samples collected from the channel of the zing
metropolitan river at various points were analyzed. The
results of the laboratory analyses were presented in
Tables 1 and 2. Table 1 contains the results of the analysis
of water samples collected during rainy season in
September; 2019 while Table 2 is results collected in dry
season (January, 2020), respectively. Results of analysis
for rainy and dry season are presented in Tables 1 and 2

TABLE 2: RESULT FOR RAINY SEASON, 2019

Location Parameters Unit Water quality Test PEPA/WHO standards
result
Angwan lafiya A. Physical:
Temperature Celsius 22.1 Ambient
pH - 7.1 6.5-8.5
Turbidity NTUmg/l 7.9 1.0
TDS Mg/l 30.0 500
B. Chemical:
Nitrate Mg/l 3.01 10.0
Nitrite Mg/l 1.0 1.0
Phosphate Mg/l 1.35 5.0
Chloride Mg/l 0.7 1.0
C. Heavy metal:
Iron Mg/l 0.75 10.0
Zinc Mg/l 0.13 5.0
Fluoride Mg/l 4.4 1.5
D. Biological:
Faeca coliform Mg/l 3.51 1.5
Angwan Sabon–layi A. Physical:
Temperature Celsius 25.4 Ambient
pH - 8.6 6.5-8.5
Turbidity NTU Mg/l 30.5 1.0
TDS Mg/l 120 500
B. Chemical:
Nitrate Mg/l 4.21 10.0
Nitrite Mg/l 3.01 1.0
Phosphate Mg/l 4.38 5.0
Chloride Mg/l 25.0 1.0
C. Heavy Metals:
Iron Mg/l 3.73 10.0
Zinc Mg/l 1.43 5.1
Fluoride Mg/l 5.5 1.5
Mg/l
D. Biological:
Faeca coliform Mg/l 10.8 1.5
Angwan Mayanka A. Physical:
Temperature Celsius 24.8 Ambient
pH - 10.01 6.5-8.5
Turbidity NTU Mg/l 105 1.0
TDS 298 500
B. Chemical:
Nitrate Mg/l 23.16 10.0
Nitrite Mg/l 0.023 1.0
Phosphate Mg/l 7.92 5.0
Chloride Mg/l 37.0 1.0
C. Heavy metals:
Iron Mg/l 1.0 10.5
Zinc Mg/l 1.97 5.0
Fluoride Mg/l 5.7 1.5
D. Biological:
Faeca coliform Mg/l 30.83 1.5
Shenpam DG 350

Table 3: Result for Dry Season, 2020

Location Parameters Unit Water quality Test result FEPA/WHO standards
Angwan lafiya A. Physical:
Temperature Celsius 24.9 Ambient
pH - 7.73 6.5-8.5
Turbidity NTUmg/l 38 1.0
TDS Mg/l 25.7 5.00

B. Chemical:
Nitrate Mg/l 19 10.0
Nitrite Mg/l 13 1.0
Phosphate Mg/l 1.34 5.0
Chloride Mg/l 0.3 1.0
C. Heavy metals:
Iron Mg/l 0.5 10.0
Zinc Mg/l 0.3 5.0
Fluoride Mg/l 8.0 1.5
D. Biological:
Faeca coliform Mg/l 14.6 1.5
Angwan Sabon–layi A. Physical:
Temperature Celsius 25.6 Ambient
pH - 8.32 6.5-8.5
Turbidity Mg/l 14.0 1.0
TDS Mg/l 71 500
B. Chemical:
Nitrate Mg/l 2.724 10.0
Nitrite Mg/l 0.273 1.0
Phosphate Mg/l 3.51 5.0
Chloride Mg/l 73 1.0
C. Heavy Metals:
Iron Mg/l 0.06 5.1
Zinc Mg/l 7.1 1.5
Fluoride Mg/l
D. Biological:
Faeca coliform Mg/l 16.50 1.5
Angwan mayanka A. Physical:
Temperature Celsius 23.3 Ambient
pH - 7.51 6.5-8.5
Turbidity Mg/l 42 1.0
TDS Mg/l 53 500
B. Chemical:
Nitrate Mg/l 13.24 10.0
Nitrite Mg/l 0.401 1.0
Phosphate Mg/l 1.21 5.0
Chloride Mg/l 57 1.0
C. Heavy metals:
Iron Mg/l 1.19 10.5
Zinc Mg/l 0.1 5.0
Fluoride Mg/l 6.5 1.5
D. Biological:
Faeca coliform Mg/l 18.06 1.5

Temperature:
The temperature of water influences the chemical and
biological processes and the aquatic life present in water
bodies. The amount of sunlight, rainfall, air, temperature;
ground discharge, and thermal point sources all influence
surface water temperature. Increase water temperature
lowers the amount of dissolved oxygen available for
aquatic plants and algae. Also, the toxicity of pollutants
tends to intensify with an increase in temperature. From
Tables 2 and 3, temperature reading of Angua-lafiya in dry
season was 24.9 while in rainy season, was 22.1. In
Sabon-layi the reading for dry season was 25.6, while in
rainy season, it was 25.4. In Angua-mayanka, temperature
reading for dry season was 23.3, while in rainy season was
24.8.
This shows that the two sample points (Angua-lafiya and
Angua-mayanka) are within the ambient point of 25.
Sabon-layi sample point had a temperature of 25.4 for
rainy season and 25.6 for dry season which is slightly
above the acceptable limit for temperature. The raise in
temperature of Sabon layi may be attributed to the land
use activities going on within the zone. Agricultural land
use in the upstream around Angua - lafiya, residential and
commercial activities may be as a result of urban runoff
from this area that must have attributed to the slightly
increase in temperature in Sabon layi. This finding agreed
with the work of IPPC (2007), that says higher temperature
reduce dissolved oxygen level which can have an effect on
aquatic life. It also opined that higher temperature could
affect recreational use of lake and rivers or productivity of
fisheries.
pH:
The measurement of pH in water is the measurements of
the negative logarithm of the hydrogen iron concentration.
The pH scale ranges from 1 to 14 and value of 7 is neutral.
Acidic conditions have a pH value less than 7 and basic
condition have a pH greater than 7. The measurement of
pH of surface water is important because many pollutants
increase in toxicity with change in pH.
From Tables 2 and 3, pH of Angua-lafiya for dry season
was 7.73 while, in rainy season it was 7.1. In sabon layi,
the pH reading for dry season was 8.32 while in rainy
season, it was 8.6. In Angua-mayanka, pH reading for dry
season was 7.51 while, in rainy season it was 10.1. This
shows that Angua-lafiya has neutral pH value of 7.1 during
dry season and 7.73 in rainy season which tend to be
slightly basic. The pH values of Sabon-layi and Angua-
mayanka for dry and rainy season were above permissible
limit (i.e they are all basic). This may be attributed to waste
disposal and dumping of refuse and other unwanted
materials into the draining channels during dry season and
surface runoff from residential, commercial and
agricultural land use during the rainy season. This tends to
J. Environ. Waste Manag. 351
agree with the work of Williams and Richard (2001), that
says land use activity of an area has effect on its pH value
at giving time especially agricultural runoff and dumping of
refuse along water channels.
Turbidity:
The turbidity of water is a measure of the extent to which
the intensity of light passing through is reduced by
suspended or colloidal matter. Although total suspended
solids affects turbidity, the degree of turbidity in water is
not equal to the concentration of suspended solid. Other
sources of turbidity are microorganisms, algae, dead plant
matter, silica PR, other mineral substance, clay, silt and
fibers. Excessive turbidity affect ecosystem in many ways.
For example, it reduced the penetration of light therefore,
reducing photosynthesis and the productivity of aquatic
plants which in turn reduce the amount of food available to
fishes. The low visibility can make difficult for the fish to
find food.
From Tables 2 and 3 above, turbidity reading of Angua
liafiya in dry season was 38NTU mg/1 while, in rainy
season it was 7.9 mg/1. In Sabon layi, the reading for dry
season was 30.5 mg/1 while in rainy season it was
140mg/1. In Angua mayanka the turbidity level for dry
season was 105 while, in rainy season it was 53 mg/1. This
tends to suggest that Zing River is highly affected during
dry season and rainy season following the events of
rainfall. This agrees with the work of Obasi and Balogun
(2001) that says Nigerian rivers are generally turbid with
high concentration of suspended silt particularly during
rainy season which may results from surface runoff from
agricultural, industrial and residential waste most
especially in urban setup.
Total dissolved solid:
Total dissolve solid (TDS) in water consists of dissolved
minerals salt that changes the physical and chemical
properties of the water. A high concentration of TDS in
water is a concern for purveyors because it alters the taste.
High TDS concentrations also exert osmotic pressure in
water purification systems in hospital and industries and
exert osmotic pressure on the stream ecosystem.
From the Tables 2 and 3, the TDS reading of Anguwa
lafiya sample point for raining season was 25.7mg/l while
in dry season it was 30.1. In Sabon-layi, the TDS reading
for dry season was 53mg/l, and rainy season reading was
298The result of TDS in all the three sample points with
seasonal variation are within the permissible limit of a
required standard which agreed with the work of UN water,
(2011) that says domestic waste, agricultural, industrial
production, mining, power generation, forestry practices
and other factor can alter the chemical, biological and
physical characteristic of water.
Shenpam DG 352
Nitrate plus Nitrite:
Nitrate plus nitrite presents the oxidized form of nitrogen in
the stream. When a compound is oxidized, it loses an
electron. They are found in surface water as a result of
waste water discharge, run off from land use and
application of fertilizers, and ground water polluted by
fertilizers. Nitrate concentration in surface waters tend to
be higher than nitrite because nitrite rapidly oxidizes to
nitrate. They are primary nutrients for routed aquatic plants
and algae and are concern for water users. From Tables 2
and 3, the values for nitrate and nitrite for dry season was
19 and 13, while the rainy season was 3.01 and 1.01. In
Sabon-layi, the result for nitrate and nitrite for dry season
was 2.724 and 0.273 while during rainy season it was 4.21
and 3.01. In Anguwa-mayanka the values of nitrate and
nitrite during dry season was 13.24 and 0.401 and the
rainy season was 23.16 and 0.023,
This tends to show that, nitrate plus nitrite in all the sample
points during the dry and rainy season were within the
permissible limit as seen in Tables 2 and 3, except nitrate
in Angua mayanka sample point. Result for nitrate in
Angua mayanka sample point in the dry season was 23.
16mg/l and 13.214mg/l for rainy season (see Tables 2 and
3). This may be attributed to the agricultural land within and
above the zone and surface run off from commercial and
pig range house around Sabon line residential area. This
was in line with the work of Kelvin, (2011) on impact of
agriculture on water pollution. The use of pesticide,
fertilizer application, dumping of organic waste at a place
can raise the level of nitrate and nitrite in both terrestrial
and aquatic ecosystem.
Chloride:
As shown in Tables 2 and 3, chloride reading of Angua
lafiya for dry season was 0.7 while for rainy season it was
0.3. In Sabon-layi, the chloride reading for dry season was
0.5 while rainy season was 0.2. In Anguwa-mayanka, the
chloride for dry season was 0.9 while the reading for rainy
season was 0. It shows that the values of chloride at all the
sample points were within the permissible limit; therefore
has no effects on human health in the study area. This is
in line with the work of Ahmed Salisu (2016) that says
chloride value below permissible limit has no effect on
human health.
Phosphate:
From the Tables 2 and 3, the value of phosphate in
Anguwa-lafiya was 1.34 during dry season while in rainy
season was 1.35. In Sabon-layi, the reading for dry season
was 3.51 while the result for rainy season was 4.38.
Anguwa-mayanka recorded 1.21 for dry season and 7.92
during the rainy season. All the values from the three
sample points are within the acceptable value of
phosphate for both dry and rainy season except Anguwa-
mayanka which recorded the highest value of 7.92 which
is above the required standard of phosphate.
The highest value recorded in Angua mayanka may be
attributed to the presence of agricultural land and surface
run off from residential and commercial land use of the
study area. This was in line with the work Odukuku (2005)
that says high phosphate concentrations could result into
enrichment of the receiving water bodies thereby leading
to ecological disaster.
Heavy Metals:
Heavy metals include arsenic, cadmium, chromium,
copper, iron, lead, manganese, mercury, nickel and zinc.
The presence and concentrations of these trace elements
in the water column and bottom sediment may reflect the
concentrations found in resident aquatic organisms.
As shown in Tables 2 and 3, Anguwa-lafiya recorded the
value of 0.5 and 0.3 for iron and zinc during the dry season
and the values of 0.75 and 0.13 for rainy season. In Sabon-
layi, the value of iron and zinc for dry season was 1.054
and 0.06 while during rainy season it was 3.73 and 1.43.
In Anguwa-mayanka the reading of iron and zinc for dry
season was 1.19 and 0.1 respectively. This shows that the
values of iron and zinc in all the three sample points were
within the permissible limit. The presences of iron in the
sample points may be as a result of runoff from the
grinding mills in the study area and mechanic workshop
present at Zing garage. This agreed with the work of
Tennesse Valley Authority, (2003) that says impervious
surface water collected and accumulate pollutants
deposited from atmosphere, leaks and cars, or derived
from other activities washed into the storm sewer system
and from there into streams and or rivers.
Fluoride:
Fluoride is found naturally in soil, water and food. It is also
produced synthetically for use in drinking water,
toothpaste, mouth wash and various chemical products.
Tooth decay is one of the most common health problem
affecting children, many people worldwide cannot afford
the cost of regular dental checks, so adding fluoride can
offer saving and benefits to those who need them.
However, concerns have arisen regarding fluoride’s effect
on health including problems with bones, teeth and
neurological development. Excessive exposure to fluoride
has been link to a number of health issues.
From Tables 2 and 3 above, fluoride reading of Anguwa-
lafiya in dry season was 8.5 while rainy season it was
4.4mg/l. In Sabon layi, the fluoride reading for dry season
was 8.5 while in rainy season it was 5.5. In Anguwa
mayanka, the fluoride reading was 6.5 while in rainy
season, it was 5.7. This shows that fluoride values for all
the sample points in both rainy and dry season are above
permissible limit therefore, it has effect on human health in
the study area. One of the problems causes by the fluoride
is the fluorosis of human health in the area. This tend to
agree with the work of Ahmed Salisu Hausan, (2016) that
says high level of fluoride content can cause fluorisis on
human teeth, problems of bones and neurogical
development (see plate 1) below:

Plate 1: Dental mottled person from Zing
Source: General Hospital Zing, Taraba State, 2019.
Faecal Coliform (E-coli)
An indication of the sanitary quantity of a water body is
determined from faecal coliform bacteria counts. Faecal
coliform bacteria are used as an indicator of faecal
contamination and of the possible existence of water borne
disease pathogens. This is because coliform bacteria are
derived from the digestive tract of mammals. Source of
faecal coliform in surface water are untreated water, falling
septic system, and animals waste. High faecal coliform
counts can render the affected water body unsuitable for
swimming.
From Tables 2 and, faecal coliform reading of Anguwa
lafiya during dry season was 14.6 while rainy season, it
was 3.51. In Sabon layi, the value of faecal coliform
recorded for dry season was 16.50 while rainy season was
10.08. In Anguwa-mayanka, the reading for faecal coliform
of dry season was 18.06 while it was 30.83 for rainy
season It shows that all the three sample points have high
level of faecal coliform (E. coli) which affects human health
in the study area, most especially the case of typhoid fever,
dysentery, hepatitis, (water borne diseases) and malaria
fever (water related disease) that is prevalent in Zing as
revealed by the inhabitants of the study area through oral
interview. This tend to agree with the work of Obasi and
Balogun, (2011) that says both rural and urban centers
where water is in short supply, the incidence of water
borne diseases such as typhoid, cholera, dysentery and
gastroenteritis is high due to contamination of the water
supplies. Water supply in Zing town is grossly inadequate
most especially during the dry season. Because of this,
residents of Zing metropolis have no choice than to rely on
any available means of water for domestic use hence the
river may be the only alternative for them. This account for
the high prevalence of water born and water related
diseases in the study area.
J. Environ. Waste Manag. 353
CONCLUSION
This paper has reviewed the water quality assessment and
monitoring of surface water in Zing Local Government
Area of Taraba State. The major sources of pollution in
Zing River is the agriculture run-off, local industrial
effluents and discharges from urban center and surface
run-off which can be group under the point source (PS)
and non-point source (NPS) of pollution. Human activity of
the metropolis has effect on the quality of Zing River which
leads to its pollution. This shows that Zing River is polluted
as shown from the result. The research has found that
cases of water borne and water related diseases are on
the increase in the study area as seen from oral source.
The finding shows that the variety and level of pollution in
Zing River is related to size of population and Land use
activities on the various part of the metropolis from where
it receives run-off and pollutants. Like most other
countries, the provision of quality water to the ever
increasing population of Nigerians cannot be over
emphasized. Without an adequate water supply, the
millions of Nigerians will suffer, agriculture will be
hampered, and the recreational industry will suffer.
Therefore, a system that monitors the changing quality of
the surface-water resources is highly necessary, and must
be put in place by all Federal and State Agencies
concerned. Water quality monitoring is therefore, pertinent
for provision of data baseline that will be useful for policy
makers and stakeholders to formulate policy that will
favour protection and management of water resources.
The issue of surface water pollution needs to be addressed
urgently by the Government to safeguard the public health.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The following recommendations are put forward:
Shenpam DG 354
1. There is an urgent need for the establishment of a
National Water Monitoring Programme (NWMP) that will
monitor the surface waters of Nigeria. Quality Assurance
Monitoring Plan (QAMP), which addresses quality control
issues in detail, must be included in the monitoring
programme. The water quality data that will be obtained
from such a programme will be used to characterize
waters, identify trends over time, identify emerging
problems, determine whether pollution control programs
are working, help direct pollution control efforts to where
they are most needed, respond to emergencies such as
floods and spills and also provide the regulatory
community with baseline data needed to enforce
environmental law.
2. The Government at all levels should trained
volunteers that will be monitoring the condition of their local
streams, lakes, estuaries and wetlands. Environmental
Pollution Agency should encourage all citizens to learn
about their water resources and supports volunteer
monitoring because of its many benefits. Volunteer water
monitors build community awareness of pollution
problems, help identify and restore problem sites, become
advocates for their watersheds and increase the amount of
needed water quality information available on USA waters.
A similar approach can be adopted in Nigeria. For
example, a Directory of Environmental Monitoring
Volunteers should be introduced using the National Youth
Service Corps (NYSC) members (‘Youth Coppers’). The
young Science graduates that spend one year serving the
country should be trained as Water Quality Monitoring
Officers during their Orientation Programme. In addition, a
special scheme to recruit young graduates as Water
Quality Monitoring Officers should be introduced. The
results of a comprehensive monitoring of our surface water
on a weekly, monthly and quarterly basis will then be
uploaded on a website. If the programme is adopted,
quality data on our streams and rivers will be acquired.
3. There is an urgent need for a review of current
environmental standards, regulations and laws in the
country. The establishment of an Agency or a unit under
the Federal Ministry of Environment that will enforce the
laws and prosecute offenders cannot be over emphasized.
4. Citizens engagement and enlightenment on the
water quality issues particularly the sources of water
pollution in the environment and so on should be
advocated for by relevant bodies.
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