Assessment of Water Supply System on Ugbowo Campus of University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria Using World Health Organization Water Safety Plan Approach

Authors: *Rawlings, A. And Erhabor, E.S.

DOI Info: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10441738

ABSTRACT

In this study, the water supply system in Ugbowo campus of University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria was evaluated using WHO water safety plan approach which is from catchment (source) to consumer with the aim of providing baseline information for effective water safety plan (WSP). Data on catchment, treatment units, storage, distribution system, and consumers were collected via key informant interview, questionnaire survey and water quality analysis. Results of water quality analysis indicated that of all parameters examined, pH (which ranges from 4.7 to 5.7) was not within acceptable limits of WHO and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). According to the questionnaire, most of the consumers (50.2%) do not treat their water before use and majority of them (79.9%) were not satisfied with the quantity of water supplied, however, some (43.3%) were satisfied with the quality of water supplied. Barriers to effective water services delivery at different stages of the water supply system were identified and these includes absent of water treatment plant in other units of the water works, pipe leakages (particularly in the areas covered by Hall-one pumping station), intermittent water supply and poor water storage practices at consumers point among others. It was deduced from this study that the water quality is exposed to hazards at various stages of the water supply chain and as such WSP development and implementation is necessary. Hence, it is recommended that all relevant stakeholders’ commitment is necessary for effective WSP implementation to protect public health in the study area.

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