A Systematic Review of Ecological and Human Health Risk Associated with Metals in Soils around Mining Areas in Nigeria

Abstract

Mineral deposits are important to the economic growth of any nation. However, the exploitation of this valuable resources can cause damage to the environment and people health due to the release of heavy metals into the surrounding. This review was carried out to access the extent of contamination, ecological and health impact of heavy metals in soils around mining areas in Nigeria. The review uncovered that the range of metals in the soils were as follow: Arsenic: 0.14-43.42 mg/kg; Cadmium: 0.03-19.00 mg/kg; Cobalt: 0.17-902.70 mg/kg; Chromium: 0.09-126.00 mg/kg; Copper: 0.003-204.04 mg/kg, Mercury: 0.05-0.85 mg/kg; Nickel: 0.95-79.20 mg/kg, Lead: 0.20-959.30 mg/kg, Zinc: 0.004-1693.10 mg/kg and Iron: 1.01-51700 mg/kg. Contamination assessment of these soils showed that they were slightly to very highly contaminated by these heavy metals. The review also uncovered that metals in soils around the mining areas in the country are deleterious to the ecosystem. This review also unraveled that Pb play a significant role in carcinogenic health risk through oral ingestion of contaminated soils while non-carcinogenic health risks are promoted by dermal contact with Co and oral ingestion of Fe in the area. Children are more susceptible to these risks than adult because of their low immunity. It is suggested that proper legislation and its enforcement should be carried out to reduce the impact of mining on the environment and human health.