1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
\r\n
Access to clean and adequate water remains a fundamental human right and a cornerstone for socio-economic development. However, many regions in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly the northeastern part of Nigeria, are increasingly facing acute water scarcity due to prolonged periods of drought, rapid population growth, and poor water resource management. Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, lies within the semi-arid Sahelian belt where rainfall is seasonal, sparse, and unpredictable. Consequently, communities within the Maiduguri metropolitan area and its environs are heavily dependent on groundwater for domestic, and industrial uses (Yusuf et al., 2015).
\r\n
The city of Maiduguri, located within the Chad Basin sedimentary zone, faces unique hydrogeological challenges. While the sedimentary environment is generally favorable for groundwater accumulation, poor planning, over-extraction, and conflict-related population displacement have intensified the demand for reliable water sources. The Maiduguri Water Board was established to oversee water supply management in the region and has since played a central role in initiating groundwater development projects (Yusuf et al., 2015).
\r\n
According to Olasehinde (2010), groundwater is often the most reliable source of water in drought-prone regions due to its resistance to short-term climate variability. However, effective groundwater development requires accurate siting of boreholes to avoid dry wells and optimize yield. Traditional methods of borehole siting, which rely on local knowledge or random drilling, have led to the failure of several water supply projects due to incorrect identification of aquifer locations and depths (Olasehinde, 2010). Water is an essential resource for human survival, agricultural productivity, and industrial development. In arid and semi-arid regions, such as Maiduguri in northeastern Nigeria, persistent drought and water scarcity have led to an increased demand for reliable groundwater sources. Borehole siting, therefore, becomes a critical process in ensuring sustainable water supply. One of the most effective scientific approaches to identifying suitable locations for groundwater development is hydrogeophysical surveying.
\r\n
According to Adepelumi et al. (2001), hydrogeophysical surveying refers to the application of geophysical methods particularly electrical resistivity and electromagnetic techniques to investigate subsurface hydrogeological conditions. These techniques help in locating aquifers, assessing their potential, and determining the depth and thickness of water-bearing formations (Adepelumi et al., 2001). The advantage of hydrogeophysical methods lies in their non-invasive nature, cost-effectiveness, and ability to cover large areas quickly, thereby reducing the risk and cost associated with unsuccessful drilling. In drought-prone areas like Maiduguri, conventional methods of borehole siting based on trial-and-error or anecdotal knowledge often result in dry or low-yielding boreholes. Given the region's vulnerability to water shortages and increasing population pressure, it is imperative to adopt scientific methods that improve the success rate of groundwater development projects. The Maiduguri Water Board, as a key agency responsible for urban and peri-urban water supply, has recognized the importance of integrating geophysical data into its water resource planning and borehole drilling operations. This study aims to investigate how hydrogeophysical techniques can be effectively utilized to identify optimal borehole sites in Maiduguri.
\r\n
1.2 Statement of Problems
\r\n
Investigation revealed that Water scarcity is one of the most pressing challenges faced by communities in drought-prone regions such as Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State in northeastern Nigeria. With erratic rainfall, high evapotranspiration rates, and a growing population exacerbated by internal displacement due to conflict the demand for potable water has drastically increased. Groundwater has emerged as the most dependable source of water in the area. However, the success of borehole drilling depends largely on accurately identifying viable aquifer zones (Yusuf et al., 2015).
\r\n
Furthermore, the use of traditional methods without geophysical guidance is resulting in dry boreholes, low-yield wells, and poor quality water, thereby compromising the sustainability of water supply systems. These failed drilling attempts not only have financial implications but also reduce public trust in government water projects. Moreover, in areas where hydrogeological conditions vary over short distances, such as within the Chad Basin sedimentary formation, improper borehole siting is worsening the water crisis rather than solving it (Olasehinde, 2010). It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to investigate the application of hydrogeophysical survey techniques for effective borehole siting in drought-prone areas.
\r\n
1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study
\r\n
The aim of the study is to assess the application of hydrogeophysical survey methods for effective borehole siting in drought-prone areas, using the Maiduguri Water Board as a case study. The specific objectives of the study are as follows:
\r\n
\r\n- To investigate the current methods used by Maiduguri Water Board for borehole siting.
\r\n- To evaluate the effectiveness of hydrogeophysical techniques in identifying suitable aquifer zones.
\r\n- To assess the challenges hindering the adoption of hydrogeophysical surveys in borehole development.
\r\n- To provide recommendations for integrating hydrogeophysical surveys into water planning strategies.
\r\n
\r\n
1.4 Research Questions
\r\n
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
\r\n
\r\n- What methods are currently used by the Maiduguri Water Board for siting boreholes?
\r\n- How effective are hydrogeophysical techniques in locating groundwater-bearing formations?
\r\n- What are the major challenges affecting the implementation of hydrogeophysical surveys?
\r\n- What strategies can be used to enhance borehole siting success through hydrogeophysical applications?
\r\n
\r\n
1.5 Significance of Study
\r\n
The findings will support the Maiduguri Water Board in making informed decisions on groundwater development, thereby improving water supply to communities struggling with persistent scarcity. The study will also assist government water agencies by providing scientific approaches to improve borehole siting outcomes.
\r\n
Furthermore, it will add to the growing body of academic and technical knowledge on groundwater development in semi-arid environments, serving as a reference for future research and policy formulation.
…
