Proliferations of Borehole Distribution Pattern in Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study is aimed at analyzing the distribution pattern of boreholes in Suleja local government area of Niger state in Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study include: to identify the distribution of boreholes in Suleja LGA, identify the factors responsible for the distribution of boreholes, access the impact of such distribution pattern; profile recommendation based on findings. To achieve these objectives, a direct field survey was conducted and the geographical locations of the boreholes were acquired using the Garmin 78 hand held Global Positioning System (GPS). The data collected was used to prepare a dot-map showing the boreholes. An interview was also conducted to compliment and determine the perception of the borehole owners on sensitive issues as related to the aim of the research. The dot map was used to analyse the spatial distribution pattern of the boreholes using ArcGIS 10.0 version. The area was divided into four (4) quadrants which constituted the sample frame and the Nearest Neighbour Analysis was adopted. Household heads were purposively interviewed. The findings revealed that unqualified engineers are sometimes involved in drilling boreholes, tiling and concretization of compound floor is a regular practice in the study area, and there is a very high demand of water in Suleja. In view of these, appropriate recommendations were made to reduce the proliferation of boreholes in the study area; provide pipe borne water for the populace, planting of trees should be encouraged, avoided concretization of ground surface to allow rainwater percolation to recharge groundwater.