Geophysical investigation of groundwater potential in Federal Polytechnic Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria

Abstract

The increase in population and economic activities at Federal Polytechnic Damaturu has resulted in significant strain on the existing water resources within the institution and surrounding areas. To address the water demand for domestic and other associated activities in the institution and its vicinity, this study was conducted to evaluate the groundwater potential in the area. The aquifer parameters in the study area were examined using the electrical resistivity technique. Two aquifer zones were identified in the study area. The first aquifer was shallow and semi-confined, while the second aquifer was confined and found at a considerable depth. The thickness of the aquifer ranged from 46 to 90 meters. The hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer was between 1. 7 and 4. 2 meters per day, with an average of 2. 7 meters per day. The transmissivity of the aquifer in the study area varied from 87 to 241 square meters per day, with a mean of 160 square meters per day. The porosity of the aquifer was between 27. 9 and 32%, yielding an average of 29. 7%. The values of the aquifer parameters in the study area are moderately elevated, indicating that the area possesses good groundwater potential. According to the findings of this research, groundwater extraction in the study area should focus on the second aquifer for high-quality and sustainable water supply. A comparison of the outcomes of this study with the work of previous researchers in Damaturu, revealed that the depth to the second aquifer in Damaturu varied across the region due to site-specific differences in deposition within the Chad Basin. The southeastern section of the study area shows considerable potential for groundwater extraction and it is recommended for borehole location.