Water quality, influence and maintenance of rural boreholes in Nigeria

The aim of this paper is to examine the quality of water pumped from some boreholes in five local governments of Oyo State for domestic and community consumption. The discussion focuses upon the comparison of the parameters tested with International Drinking Water Standards. The changing significance of borehole construction to enhance agricultural industrial and domestic water demand was also examined. The problems facing underground water development were identified. Similarly, the role that can be played by the benefiting communities and government water agencies were highlighted. The results, in general, are relevant for minimizing risks in underground water development and in spreading social amenities to Nigerian rural communities.

Key words:

• Water quality
• rural boreholes
• Nigeria