Evaluation of Water Quality Parameters in the Challawa River, Kano State, North West Nigeria

The Challawa River in Kano State serves as a critical water source for industrial, agricultural, and domestic uses in the surrounding communities. However, rapid industrialisation along the riverbanks has raised concerns about deteriorating water quality. This study evaluated selected physicochemical and biological water quality parameters at six sampling stations along the Challawa River, covering upstream, midstream, and downstream reaches. Parameters assessed included pH, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, nitrate, phosphate, turbidity, total dissolved solids, total coliform count, and faecal coliform levels. Sampling was conducted monthly over a six-month period spanning wet and dry seasons. Results indicated progressive deterioration in water quality from upstream to downstream reaches, with dissolved oxygen levels falling below the World Health Organization minimum threshold at stations near industrial discharge points. Nitrate and phosphate concentrations exceeded permissible limits, suggesting significant nutrient loading from agricultural runoff and wastewater effluents. Total coliform counts were alarmingly high at downstream stations, indicating faecal contamination from open defecation and poorly managed sewage systems. The study recommends establishment of regular government-led water quality monitoring along the Challawa catchment, installation of treatment facilities for industrial effluents, and public awareness campaigns targeting farming communities along the river corridor. Keywords: water quality, Challawa River, physicochemical parameters, industrial pollution, Kano State.