Evaluation of Heavy Metal Content of Soil Sample from Njere River in Umuakam Okaiuga Nkwoegwu, Umuahia North L.G.A of Abia State

Aim: To evaluate the heavy metal content of soil samples from Njere river bank.

Study Design: Soil samples were sourced from three different locations, upstream, midstream and downstream of the river bank.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Chemistry, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, between June 2009 and December 2009.

Methodology: In each location, soil sample was collected from various points and pooled together. The soil samples were air-dried and used for Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy.

Results: Total Ni and Zn concentrations were below W.H.O standard in the upstream and midstream samples. Fe and Pb were not detected in the midstream and downstream samples. Soluble concentrations of Ni, Fe and Zn and exchangeable concentrations of Ni, Cd, Fe, Zn and Pb were below the standard.

Conclusion: The results reveal that the heavy metal contamination of the soil around the Njere river bank is very low. The soil can support production of healthy crops for food security in the area.