Heavy Metal Contamination of Soils in Industrial Ceramic Sites with Long-Term Ecological and Sustainable Land Use Implications

This study assessed the concentrations of selected heavy metals in soil samples collected around the West African Ceramics factory in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, Nigeria. A total of 11 soil samples were collected within an 80-meter radius of the factory and analysed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). The heavy metals analyzed, zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), cobalt (Co), and nickel (Ni), were selected due to their toxicity, persistence in soils, potential for bioaccumulation, and frequent occurrence in raw materials, glazes, and pigments used in ceramic production. Results revealed detectable levels of Zn (0.5552– 2.8856 mg/kg), Cu (0.0865–2.0716 mg/kg), and Cd (0.0071–0.0576 mg/kg), all below the WHO permissible limits. Pb, As, Ni, and Co were not detected in any of the samples. The presence of even low concentrations of these toxic metals, particularly cadmium, highlights the potential for long-term ecological and health risks. This study provides important baseline data for environmental monitoring and contributes to the growing body of knowledge on industrial soil pollution in Nigeria, serving as a reference point for future remediation and policy interventions. Based on these findings, we recommend regular monitoring of soils and crops around industrial ceramic sites to prevent heavy metal accumulation and protect environmental and human health.