Investigating the Groundwater potential at the Boys Hostel, Bosso Campus, Federal University of Technology Minna, using Electrical Resistivity Method

Abstract

Scarcity of water is a burning issue in most campuses in Nigerian Universities. Geophysical investigation for groundwater potential was carried out at the Boys Hostel, Bosso Campus, Federal University of Technology Minna, Niger State. Horizontal Electrical Profiling (HEP) and Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) were carried out using the Schlumberger configuration. About 25 HEP stations were established at maximum current electrode of separation (AB/2) of 60m. The distance between profiles was 20m and the interval between VES stations was set at 30m and 10 VES stations were established. Qualitative and quantitative interpretation of the data was carried out with the aid of the traditional curve matching and the digital computer iteration. The pseudosections, isoresistivity map of depth to basement, isopach map of weathered layer, geoelectric sections and digital terrain model of the area were developed. The HK, QH, HA and H curve types were identified and stated in their order of dominance. The shallow weathered portion as well as the deep seated fracture zone forms the main water bearing zones in the area. Groundwater abstraction from deeper fractures was recommended for future boreholes in the area as the shallow regolith aquifer yield are poor due to over abstraction over the years which have resulted to seasonal static water level.