Geoelectric Assessment of Groundwater Potential in Erin-Ile Basement Region Complex of Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

This study presents a geoelectric evaluation of groundwater potential in Erin-Ile, situated in the basement complex terrain, utilizing Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) to delineate lithological layers and assess aquifer characteristics. The study area relies entirely on groundwater for daily water supply, leading to challenges such as low borehole yields and increased water demand due to population growth and infrastructure development. The resistivity and thickness parameters analyzed to understand the subsurface hydrogeological structure. Notably, the study employs H-Type and KH-type curves to categorize lithological layers as lateritic soil, weathered basement, and fractured/fresh basement. Groundwater potential analyses consider aquifer resistivity, thickness, hydraulic conductivity, and transmissivity. The results indicate varying groundwater potential across the 50 VES points, with transmissivity ranging from -931.6 to 474.37 m²/day. Of these points, 74% are classified as having moderate potential, 24% as having low potential, and 2% as having negligible potential. No locations were identified with high or good groundwater potential. The southwestern part of the study area is predominantly characterized by moderate groundwater potential. This research contributes valuable insights into the hydrogeology of Erin-Ile, offering a foundation for sustainable groundwater resource management. This study provides valuable insights into the hydrogeology of Erin-Ile, emphasizing the importance of geoelectric methods in assessing groundwater potential. The findings highlight opportunities for improving groundwater resource management and optimizing water supply infrastructure.