UNDERGROUND WATER SOURCE AND HUMAN HEALTH IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Water, especially fresh water, is essential to life and as such forms major component of living organism. Water is essential to the body to regulate body temperature, moisten tissues, protect body organs and tissues and carry nutrients and oxygen to body cells, among other functions. This fresh water does not spread across the globe. Some regions of the world experience rainfall to replenish rivers, reservoirs and aquifers, while some regions in the world still experience drought such as Spain, Australia, Asia and Africa including Nigeria. As such, most parts of Africa that experience long dry season depends on natural reservoir which is underground water source. This is the only realistic means of significantly improving potable drinking water source for the people. Ground water is one of the most valuable natural resources that aid survival of human beings and the development of human societies. However, serious ground water pollution may have significant effect on human health. The underground water pollution is believed to come from two sources: geogenic source (inorganic) and anthropogenic sources (organic source from human activities). These pollutants constitute hazards to human populace and hinder the rapid economic development and sustenance of our environment. So, there is indirect links between water and health as it promotes good economic returns to the country.