Geophysical Mapping of Aquifer Systems in the Niger Delta: Practical Applications for Water Supply Development

Woyengitonye Butler Abadani; Tamunosiki Dieokuma

doi:10.62292/njp.v35i3.2026.560

Authors

Woyengitonye Butler Abadani
tonyeguyz@gmail.com

Federal Polytechnic Ekowe
Tamunosiki Dieokuma
Federal University Otuoke

Keywords:

Aquifer mapping, Electrical Resistivity Tomography, Vertical Electrical Sounding, Groundwater development, Hydrogeophysics

Abstract

The Niger Delta region of Nigeria faces increasing pressure on groundwater resources due to population growth, urbanization, oil and industrial activities, and widespread contamination of surface water. Understanding aquifer geometry, depth, and hydraulic characteristics is essential for sustainable water supply development. This paper examines the practical application of integrated near-surface geophysical techniques: Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) for mapping aquifer systems in the Niger Delta. Using a desk-based review of empirical studies and field applications, the paper evaluates how combined resistivity methods enhance subsurface characterization, reduce drilling uncertainty, and support groundwater development planning. Results from reviewed studies indicate that integrated VES-ERT frameworks improve delineation of lithological boundaries, identification of freshwater-saline interfaces, detection of clay aquitards, and estimation of aquifer thickness. Key challenges include heterogeneous subsurface materials, high groundwater salinity in coastal zones, and limited technical capacity for geophysical interpretation. The study recommends increased adoption of integrated geophysical methods in rural and peri-urban water supply projects, capacity building, harmonized interpretation standards, and real-time data integration with hydrogeological models. Overall, VES-ERT integration provides a cost effective, non-invasive, and reliable approach for sustainable groundwater development in the Niger Delta

Dimensions

REFERENCES

Adewuyi, T. O., Oladapo, M. I., Adiat, K. A. N., & Akinlalu, A. O. (2020). Groundwater contamination studies around waste disposal sites using integrated geophysical and hydrochemical methods. Environmental Earth Sciences, 79(4), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12665-020-08843-2

Adepelumi, A. A., Ako, B. D., Ajayi, T. R., Afolabi, O., & Omotoso, E. J. (2012). Magnetic and resistivity mapping of waste disposal sites and their subsurface effects in southwestern Nigeria. Journal of Applied Geophysics, 81, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jappgeo.2011.10.012

Audu, S. O., Okeke, F. N., & Oguah, J. (2018). Hydrogeological assessment of aquifer systems using electrical resistivity methods in Niger Delta sediments. Nigerian Journal of Geological Research, 29(2), 45–60.

Ikoh, I. M., & Akpabio, E. M. (2020). Groundwater vulnerability in Niger Delta communities: Geophysical assessment and implications for water supply. Journal of Environmental Management and Sustainability, 12(2), 45–60.

Ogungbe, A. S., Amidu, S. A., Yusuff, A. A., & Adabanija, M. A. (2019). Electrical resistivity techniques in mapping near-surface contamination and aquifer delineation: Case studies from Nigeria. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 191(5), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10661-019-7392-7

Olayinka, O. O., Oladapo, M. I., & Adewuyi, T. O. (2017). Hydrogeophysical techniques for aquifer characterization in sedimentary basins: Nigerian case studies. Environmental Earth Sciences, 76(12), 1–18. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12665-017-6754-9

Okoro, U., Oteri, A., & Chineke, T. (2019). Hydrogeological impacts of solid waste disposal on shallow aquifers in the Niger Delta region. Hydrogeology Journal, 27(3), 789–804. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10040-018-1886-3

Soupios, P. M., Papadopoulos, N., Papadopoulos, I., Kouli, M., Vallianatos, F., Lolos, P., & Vafidis, A. (2007). Application of geophysical methods in landfill studies: A review. Waste Management & Research, 25(6), 551–565. https://doi.org/10.1177/0734242X07081356

Chang, H. K., Santos, R. L., De Santi, R. N., & Aranha, P. R. (2018). Applications of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) in environmental and engineering investigations: A review. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 190(7), 1–18. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10661-018-6780-9