Assessing Chloride Distribution and Concentrations in the Aquifer Systems of the Niger Delta

Abstract

This study aims at assessing the distribution of chloride in the aquifer systems and evaluating its occurrence in the different geomorphologic zones of the Niger Delta. The chloride values range from 3mg/l – 810mg/l. 68% of the samples have chloride concentration less than 48mg/l, 24% with chloride concentration between 48mg/l and 250 mg/l while 8% with chloride concentration greater than 250mg/l. The highest concentration of 801mg/l was obtained from a borehole at Oloma. The chloride content in groundwater appears generally to decrease from north to south i.e. from the hinterland to the coast. The localized chloride enrichment around the Old GRA, Borokiri, Moscow road and Central Police Station in Port Harcourt could be as a result of brackish water invasion from nearby creeks and tidal channels. The study revealed that chloride is a major quality issue especially in groundwater in these areas as well as in the mangrove swamps and the coastal beaches and ridges.