EVALUATION OF PRIMORDIAL RADIONUCLIDES AND HEALTH IMPACTS IN SOIL FROM THE EFFA AREA, BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study evaluates the concentrations of naturally occurring radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th, and 40K) and their 
associated health impacts in soil samples from Effa communities surrounding the Abache coal mine in Benue State, 
Nigeria. Mining activities redistribute these radionuclides, increasing environmental exposure to ionizing radiation. 
Sixteen soil samples were randomly collected and analysed using NaI (Tl) gamma spectrometry at the Centre for 
Energy and Research Training (CERT), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The mean activity concentrations of 
226Ra, 232Th, and 40K were 33.33 ± 2.56 Bq/kg, 41.06 ± 2.40 Bq/kg, and 51.53 ± 2.71 Bq/kg, respectively. The 
226Ra value slightly exceeded the global average by a factor of 1.01, while 232Th and 40K were below. Most 
radiological hazard indices were within permissible limits, except for the annual gonadal dose equivalent (AGDE) 
which exceeded safety thresholds at specific sites and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) with the average value of 
0.91x 10-3 higher than the world average of 0.29 x 10-3 which would be considered as moderate to high risk. The 
results of radium equivalent activity do not show any radiological implications if the soils are used domestically. 
These findings emphasize the need for regular environmental monitoring and mitigation measures.