Challenges and Prospects of Bioresource Development in Nigeria: A Case Study of Groundwater Resources in Maiduguri IDP Camps, Borno State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the challenges and prospects of groundwater resources within Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria, focusing on their implications for bioresource development. The research analyzes water quality data from three IDP camps (Teacher's Village, Stadium, and Bakassi) and their surrounding neighborhoods, revealing significant microbial contamination. Specifically, samples from boreholes and nearby taps in these camps showed elevated levels of Escherichia coli, Faecal coliform, and Faecal Staphylococcus, far exceeding the World Health Organization (WHO) 2018 acceptable limits for drinking water. For instance, E. coli counts ranged from 40 to 120 cfu/100ml, while faecal coliforms reached up to 170 cfu/100ml. This severe contamination is primarily attributed to improper municipal solid and liquid waste management (MSLWM) within the densely populated camp environments. The findings highlight critical public health risks and significant impediments to sustainable bioresource development, which relies on clean water. Prospects for addressing these challenges include implementing integrated water resource management strategies, improving waste management infrastructure, enhancing community awareness and participation, and strengthening regulatory frameworks. Sustainable development of groundwater resources in these vulnerable settings is crucial for ensuring public health and fostering broader bioresource development initiatives in Nigeria. This paper underscores the urgent need for multi-sectoral interventions to safeguard water quality and promote resilient communities in conflict-affected regions.