Microbiological and Physico-Chemical Assessment of Influent and Treated Water Sources for Municipal Consumption in Sokoto Metropolis

Abstract

This study evaluates the microbiological and physico-chemical properties of influent and treated water sources for municipal consumption in Sokoto Metropolis, Nigeria. Water samples were collected from various points, including river sources and municipal treatment facilities and analysed for temperature, pH, turbidity, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and heavy metal concentrations. Microbiological assessments included coliform tests, total bacterial count of isolated bacterial species. The results revealed variations in water quality across sampling locations, with some sources exceeding WHO and NSDWQ standards for potable water. High levels of coliforms and the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in untreated water highlight potential public health risks. Despite treatment efforts, some locations still exhibited microbial contamination, emphasizing the need for improved water treatment protocols. S. marcescens, E.coli, S. aureus, S. marcescens, V. cholera, K. pneumonia, S.typhi, Enterobacter sp, C. freundii were among the bacteria that were isolated from the various water samples. This study underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and enhanced treatment strategies to ensure safe drinking water for the growing population in Sokoto Metropolis.

Keywords: Water quality, microbiological assessment, physico-chemical analysis, Sokoto Metropolis, bacteria species.