Scientific Planning of Water Resources in Edo State, Nigeria Using Streamflow Models of Ikpoba, Owan and Ossiomo Rivers

Abstract

Modelling of streamflow of Owan, Ikpoba and Ossisomo Rivers were carried out by least square regression method with the help of Microsoft Excel Software. The available streamflow data (stage and discharge) of Ikpoba, Owan and Ossiomo Rivers were calibrated from 1989 to 2000. The performance of calibration was measured by using measures of goodness of fit such as Coefficient of determination (R2) ranging between 0.9937 and 0.9991, Coefficient of correlation (R) ranging between 0.9918 and 0.9995, Nash-Sutcliffe model Efficiency (NSE) ranging between 0.969 and 0.9991 Standard error of estimate of discharge on stage (SQH) or Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) ranging between 0.30 and 2.59, and Mean Absolute Relative Error (MARE) ranging between 0.9962 and 1.000. The streamflow models developed in this research are very important as they will help in ensuring that future planning/management of water supply in Edo State, Nigeria are efficiently and scientifically made in order to have enough water to meet the needs of human, animals as well as natural systems.