Heavy Metal Contamination of Soils and Associated Environmental Risks in Kano State, Nigeria

This study investigates heavy metal contamination in soils across multiple land‑use types in Kano State, Nigeria, including industrial sites, urban residential zones, municipal dumpsites, and agricultural lands irrigated with wastewater. Heavy metals of concern — lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) — were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Results show elevated levels of Pb, Cd, and Cr beyond international guideline limits in industrial and wastewater‑impacted soils, with significant ecological and potential human health risks. Pollution indices (Contamination Factor, Geo‑accumulation Index, and Pollution Load Index) indicate moderate to severe soil contamination, especially around industrial and dumpsite areas. The findings highlight critical environmental risks, emphasizing the need for robust environmental policies, remediation practices, and continuous soil monitoring to protect ecosystem integrity and public health in Kano State.