Abstract
The concentration of trace metals were determined in the world of waters River Benue within Makurdi Metropolitan area using atomic absorption spectrophotometer for two seasons. The mean concentration of the heavy metals Pb, Ni, Cu, Cr, Cd and Al obtained in mg/L were 0.42, 0.39, 0.35, 1.58, 0.19 and 0.04 respectively. There was no significant difference in the concentration of heavy metals across the studied stations (P>0.05). However, during the seasons there was significant difference in the concentration of heavy metals (P<0.05). The mean values of the heavy metals (Pb, Ni, Cr, Cd and Al) in the waters of River Benue were above the drinking water quality standard set by WHO except for Cu. There is clear evidence that River Benue within Makurdi is polluted with heavy metals and there is need to monitor the River regularly by the regulatory authority. The waters of River Benue should not be consumed without adequate treatment. Key words: Trace metals, River Benue, contamination.  
Highlights
Heavy metals are intrinsic natural constitutes of the environment
Heavy metal contamination in aquatic environment is of critical concern because of their toxicity and accumulation in aquatic organisms (Akintujoye et al, 2013)
The results indicate that the mean concentration of Chromium was highest at Stations: I, III, IV, V and VI while at Station II it was the mean concentration of Lead that was the highest among the other trace elements in Akaahan et al 51
Summary
Heavy metals are intrinsic natural constitutes of the environment. They are present in trace amount in natural aquatic environments (Aderinola et al, 2009). Heavy metals tend to accumulate in soils and sediments after weathering processes and can be deposited in water bodies during surface runoffs. When the heavy metals get into the aquatic ecosystem they usually scatter among the various compounds in the water (Anim-Gyampo et al, 2013). Agrochemicals such as fertilizer and herbicides which are usually used on our farms contain heavy metals that accumulate in the soils which may leach into water bodies around farm
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