Chemical Composition of Groundwater in Artisanal Gold Mining Communities in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining activities in Kebbi State generate toxic mine tailings and use mercury amalgamation processes that leach contaminants into local groundwater used by farming and pastoral communities. This study investigates the chemical composition of groundwater in five artisanal mining communities across two local government areas in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria. Groundwater samples from shallow wells and boreholes are analysed for pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, sulphate, chloride, nitrate, total iron, manganese, mercury, lead, arsenic, and cyanide using spectrophotometric and atomic absorption spectrophotometric techniques. Mercury is specifically determined by cold vapour atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Results are mapped against known mining site locations to identify spatial contamination gradients. Measured concentrations are compared against World Health Organization and Nigerian drinking water quality standards. Community health data on neurological and renal symptoms documented at local health facilities are referenced to contextualise exposure risks. Results are expected to demonstrate elevated mercury, lead, and arsenic concentrations in communities with active amalgamation pits. Findings provide critical baseline data for remediation planning and risk communication in artisanal mining zones and inform the State Ministry of Solid Minerals Development on groundwater protection requirements. Keywords: artisanal gold mining, groundwater contamination, mercury, Kebbi State, heavy metals