EXPLORATION FOR GROUNDWATER WITHIN THE LAW FACULTY OF IBBU LAPAI, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the structural competence of the subsurface geological materials on which the building of the Faculty of Law, IBBUL Niger State, Nigeria was erected. It as well geophysically characterized the site quality, suitability and possible viable groundwater resources location. Five Vertical Electrical Soundings (VES) points were investigated in the study area employing ABEM Terrameter SAS 300C with Schlumberger electrode configuration of maximum electrode separation AB/2 = 60 m. The field resistivity data were modeled and interpreted using IPI2WIN computer software. The results were presented in the form of pseudo cross section, geo-electric sections along three cross sections, and log table. The interpreted results showed that the geo-electric sections consist of mainly three layers, which are: Top soil, Aquifer layer, weathered basement layer. The resistivity value and subsurface layer thickness for the top soil varied from 0.09 to 24.60 Ώm and 5.05 to 32.70 m respectively. The aquifer layer had resistivity values ranging from 128 to 264 Ώm and thickness between 14.50 and 15.80. The weathered layer resistivity varied from 37.70 to 449 Ώm with thickness of 13.40 m to 67.60 m. Geo-electric sections along VES point 1 revealed the weakest geologic materials with highest moisture content materials and at very shallowest depth, thus not suitable for locating any civil engineering infrastructure. VES points 3 and 4 are the delineated areas suitable for building development, thereby ascertaining the suitability and quality of the location for the faculty building already on scene. Viable Borehole drill point was delineated at a point midway between VES points 4 and 5. Adoption of Geophysical site characterization as top pre-building development expert standards with strong legislative backings in order to establish; the topography elevation, clay & moisture contents, and the depth to the weak zones before embarking on any building construction was recommended.