Some physico-chemical properties of water from hand-dug wells in the basement complex of south-western Nigeria

Analysis of physico-chemical properties of water from hand-dug wells in south-western Nigeria was carried out in three different geological environments between November and February 1997/98. The laboratory investigation revealed that 100% of the water samples are acceptable for drinking using World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The quality of the water samples meets the recommended limits of the American Water Works Association (AWWA) for industrial uses and US Department of Agriculture for irrigation purposes. There is very little or no pollution in groundwater as a result of human activities. The possible future sources of contamination are discussed. Recommendations are made for protection against the speculated and potential pollution by emphasizing the use of low cost technology based on local materials and the financial resources of the people.