Geophysical Investigation of Groundwater Potential in Ahmadu Bello University (Abu) Farm Area

Hydrogeophysical investigation was carried out in Ahmadu Bello University Farm Area. The results obtain from the field were converted to response curves; depth of penetration of current to layers, resistivities, thicknesses, and groundwater potential were deduced. Water potential in the area shows three unit of water system at various depths (10 meter. 42 meter, and 82 meter). The apparent resistivity values ranges from as low as 29 ohm meter to as high as 25,027 ohm meter. This is an indication that some area might be clay formation while other areas are highly consolidated. IXID curve modeling of the area reveal 6–7 lithologic sequences with various thicknesses consisting of Top soil, Sandy clay, Fine to Medium sand, Coarse sand, Weathered Basement, Fractured Basement, and Fresh Basement. Water bearing zones are within the third to sixth lithologic layer; this is due to the moderate resistivity values obtain. The lithostratigraphy controls the occurrence, type, and behaviour of the aquifer units in the area. Three aquifer systems were demarcated from the lithologic sequences: Soft Overburden Aquifer, Weathered Aquifer, and Structural Controlled Aquifer. The three aquifer unit flows through a ground channel to River Shika. The Soft Overburden Aquifer towards the Kubanni Dam was divided to three members; Fine grained sand, Medium grained sand, and Coarse grained sand. The groundwater in the members flows towards the Kubanni Reservoirs. Their water level varies with regional rainfall as input and output (recharge and evaporation). The three aquifer type (Soft Overburden, Weathered, and Fractured Aquifer) of the area depict varied water potential form one spot to another.