Pollution studies on Nigerian rivers: heavy metals in surface water of warri river, Delta State

Surface water samples from Warri river in Delta State of Nigeria were analyzed quantitatively for the concentration of nine heavy metals, namely: Cadmium, Chromium, Copper, Iron, Lead, Manganese, Nickel, Vanadium and Zinc, using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Iron (Fe) recorded the highest mean value of 1.9304mgl-1 while Lead (Pb), had the least mean concentration of 0.0001mgl-1. Warri river receives effluents from industrial, agricultural and domestic sources. Cadmium, Chromium, Manganese and Nickel had higher concentrations than values in standard guidelines for potable water, pointing to the existence of risks to public health. There is need, therefore for a constant monitoring of the heavy metals concentrations in the surface water as well as a comprehensive conservation efforts by relevant organizations.