Groundwater Potential Evaluation in A Basement Complex Terrain of Mubi South, Northeastern Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluates groundwater potential in a basement complex terrain using Dar Zarrouk parameters derived from vertical electrical sounding (VES) data. A total of 20 VES points were acquired using the Schlumberger array configuration to determine subsurface resistivity distribution and aquifer characteristics [2]. The computed parameters include longitudinal conductance, transverse resistance, hydraulic conductivity, and transmissivity. Results reveal that approximately 80% of the study area exhibits favourable hydrogeological conditions dominated by H- and KH-type curves, indicative of weathered and fractured aquifer systems. Longitudinal conductance values range from 0.01775 to 2.316 Ω⁻¹, indicating moderate aquifer protective capacity. Transverse resistance ranges from 81.17 to 2523.77 Ωm², suggesting moderate to high aquifer saturation and thickness. Transmissivity values range from 16.68 to 1468.54 m²/day, with an average of 467.46 m²/day, indicating high groundwater-yield potential in 50% of locations. Hydraulic conductivity values vary from 9.50 to 36.38 m/day, reflecting moderate to high permeability. The integration of geoelectrical data with Dar Zarrouk parameters proves to be a reliable and cost-effective approach for groundwater exploration and sustainable water resource development in basement terrains.