GEOELECTRICAL INVESTIGATION OF GROUNDWATER POTENTIAL IN PARTS OF GIDAN KWANO CAMPUS, FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, MINNA, NORTH CENTRAL
Abstract
The persistent water scarcity at Federal University of Technology, Minna's Gidan Kwano Campus, prompted this investigation to identify sustainable groundwater sources. This study employed the Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) technique using Schlumberger configuration to evaluate subsurface conditions and locate viable drilling sites.Nine VES stations were established across three profiles using the ABEM Terrameter SAS 4000, with electrode spacing reaching 30 meters to achieve depths up to 80 meters. Data interpretation with IPI2WIN software revealed predominantly H-type curves, indicating a three-layer geological structure comprising lateritic topsoil, weathered/fractured basement, and fresh basement rock. Resistivity values ranged from 0.268 Ωm to 87,594 Ωm, while weathered layer thickness varied between 0.0118 m and 10.3 m. Results showed promising aquifer potential at specific locations. VES A3 displayed low-resistivity zones (1-3 Ωm) suggesting confined aquifer conditions. VES B2 and B3 exhibited favorable weathered/fractured zones with good groundwater potential, while VES C3 demonstrated moderate aquifer characteristics. These four locations were identified as priority sites for borehole development due to their thick weathered layers.
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