Analysis of Groundwater Contamination from Abattoir Activities in Maiduguri, Borno State, North East Nigeria

Abattoirs generate large volumes of liquid effluents including blood, gut contents, and wastewater that can infiltrate groundwater systems when disposal infrastructure is inadequate. This study analysed groundwater contamination from abattoir activities in Maiduguri, Borno State, examining physicochemical and microbiological parameters in wells located at varying distances from the main municipal abattoir. Water samples were collected from fifteen hand-dug wells during wet and dry seasons. Parameters analysed included pH, electrical conductivity, nitrate, phosphate, total dissolved solids, total hardness, total coliform, Escherichia coli, and selected heavy metals. Results revealed that wells within 100 metres of the abattoir perimeter had significantly elevated nitrate, phosphate, and coliform concentrations compared to wells located more than 300 metres away. Escherichia coli was detected in 80 percent of wells in the near-abattoir zone, exceeding World Health Organization drinking water guidelines. Heavy metal levels were within permissible limits at all sampling points. Dry season samples generally showed higher pollutant concentrations, consistent with reduced groundwater dilution. The study highlights serious public health risks posed by poorly managed abattoir wastewater in semi-arid urban settings. Recommendations include mandatory construction of lined effluent treatment ponds at all commercial abattoirs, regular testing of community wells, and public awareness on the health risks of consuming contaminated groundwater. Keywords: groundwater contamination, abattoir effluent, Maiduguri, Borno State, water quality.