Geology and Geophysical Investigation of Groundwater Potential around Boh and Environs, Gongola Arm of the Northern Benue Trough Northeastern Nigeria
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Groundwater exploration within crystalline basement and sedimentary terrains requires the integration of geological and geophysical investigations to accurately delineate aquifer systems and identify viable groundwater targets. This study employed detailed geological mapping and Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) to evaluate the groundwater potential of Boh and its environs within the Upper Benue Trough, northeastern Nigeria. Thirteen VES stations were established using the Schlumberger electrode configuration with a maximum current electrode half-spacing (AB/2) of 100 m. The acquired resistivity data were interpreted using WinResist Version 1.0 software to determine subsurface resistivity distributions and layer thicknesses. The geoelectrical interpretation revealed three major subsurface units. The uppermost unit comprises lateritic/topsoil materials characterized by resistivity values ranging from 13.7 to 147.7 Ωm. Beneath this layer occurs a weathered/fractured basement and saturated sandstone horizon, interpreted as the principal aquifer unit, with resistivity values varying between 29.3 and 915.1 Ωm. The deepest unit corresponds to the fresh basement complex, exhibiting relatively high resistivity values ranging from 242 to 2359 Ωm. Variations in resistivity and thickness indicate considerable heterogeneity in subsurface hydrogeological conditions across the study area. Aquifer evaluation identified VES locations 1, 7, 9, 11, 12, and 13 as the most promising borehole sites due to the occurrence of relatively thick aquiferous zones with resistive to moderately conductive characteristics favorable for groundwater storage and transmission. Overall, the groundwater potential of the area is classified as low to moderate, largely constrained by limited aquifer thickness and poor fracture connectivity. The study highlights the importance of careful borehole siting and recommends the integration of complementary geophysical methods to enhance fracture characterization and support sustainable groundwater development.
Institutions: Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Gombe State University
Language: English
Subfield: Geophysics
Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7217280343