Ensuring Safety: Groundwater Quality and Its Potential Health Effects in the Mgbede Oil Fields Environment of South-South Nigeria. (Preprint)

BACKGROUND The quality of groundwater in the Mgbede Oil Fields of South-south Nigeria has become a concern due to potential contamination from industrial activities, particularly gas flaring. Assessing the impact of these activities on groundwater quality is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of local communities and the environment. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the quality of groundwater in the Mgbede Oil Fields, specifically examining whether the water meets international drinking water standards and identifying any contaminants present due to gas flaring. METHODS Purposeful selection of water sampling points was employed to ensure the objectives of the study were met. Groundwater samples were collected from various locations within the Mgbede Oil Fields and analyzed for key quality parameters, including pH, manganese, and turbidity, among others. RESULTS The analysis revealed that while most groundwater samples were within acceptable international drinking water limits, there were notable exceptions. pH levels ranged from 5.17 to 6.16, manganese concentrations from 0.001 to 0.136 mg/L, and turbidity levels from 0.00 to 825 mg/L. All sampled locations exhibited traces of manganese and high acidity, indicating particulate pollution likely resulting from gas flaring activities. CONCLUSIONS The study concluded that the groundwater quality in the Mgbede Oil Fields is negatively impacted by continuous gas flaring. Contaminants such as manganese and increased acidity levels exceed acceptable international standards, posing potential risks to environmental health. To mitigate these risks, it is recommended that immediate measures be taken to reduce gas flaring and its associated particulate emissions. Regular monitoring of groundwater quality should be implemented to track improvements and ensure compliance with international standards. Additionally, introducing filtration systems or alternative water sources could help protect the health of local communities. This study underscores the significant impact of industrial activities, specifically gas flaring, on groundwater quality in the Mgbede Oil Fields. The findings highlight the urgent need for regulatory measures and continuous monitoring to safeguard environmental health and ensure the availability of safe drinking water.