Assessment of the Microbiological Quality of Borehole Water and Residents’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices in Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Access to microbiologically safe drinking water is essential for public health. In peri-urban and semi-rural communities such as Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, Nigeria, limited access to municipal water has increased reliance on groundwater boreholes, which may be compromised by poor sanitation and inadequate water-handling practices. This study evaluated the microbiological quality of borehole water and household-stored water and assessed residents’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) regarding water safety and hygiene. Borehole water samples were analysed using Total Viable Count, multiple-tube fermentation for presumptive coliforms, faecal coliform enumeration, and biochemical characterization of bacterial isolates. Sanitary surveys of borehole surroundings and a structured KAP questionnaire administered to 100 water consumers (residents) were also conducted. Of the twenty-one (21) boreholes assessed, five (5) met microbiological requirements for potable water, while 16 showed varying degrees of contamination. The highest microbial contamination was recorded at one sampling location. Presumptive pathogenic organisms, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., and Enterobacter/Citrobacter spp., were isolated. Major sanitary risks included the proximity of boreholes to pit latrines, septic tanks, and open dump sites. Poor water-safety perceptions and inadequate treatment practices were also reported among residents. The findings indicate that a substantial proportion of borehole water sources were microbiologically unsafe for drinking, potentially increasing exposure to waterborne diseases. Contamination was associated with inadequate borehole siting, poor structural protection, and unsafe household water-storage practices. Strengthened sanitary regulation, community-based WASH education, routine microbiological monitoring, improved household storage hygiene, and appropriate point-of-use water treatment are recommended to reduce contamination and protect public health.