Assessment of heavy metal contamination of Great Kwa River estuary, southeastern coast of Nigeria by index of geochemical accumulation

Abstract

Heavy metal concentration of the Great Kwa River estuary at the southeastern coast of Nigeria was assessed using an index of geochemical analysis (Igeo). Sampling from surface sediment was conducted quarterly for a period of one year, reflecting seasoning changes in the area. Igeo was calculated from the differences between actual current measurements and subtracted from background levels of “average shale” measurement. Based upon metals analyzed (Fe, Mn, Zn, Ni, Cu, Pb, Hg, and Cd), it was observed that there was a strong indication of potential ecological risk attributed to Cd, Zn, and Ni in the surface sediment. For effective control of pollution by metals in this fragile ecosystem, several recommendations were made including control of anthropogenic activities especially those of petroleum industry from offshore oil wells located in the area.

Keywords:

• heavy metal concentration
• analysis
• sediment samples
• Igeo, potential ecological risk