Regional groundwater studies using high-resolution aeromagnetic data in Abuja and environs, North-Central Nigeria

Abstract

Abuja and environs usually experiences water shortage during the dry season as a result of rapid population growth, due to the fact that the water from Lower Usuma Dam used for domestic and industrial purposes are no longer sufficient to cater for its teeming population. The shortage can be minimized through better understanding of lineament configurations of the area. Regional groundwater studies using high-resolution aeromagnetic data in Abuja and environs, North-Central Nigeria were carried out to address water shortages in Abuja and its surroundings. The aim of the study was to identify groundwater targets/potential zones for the purpose of providing sufficient water to the communities in the area. The study area is situated in the North-Central part of Nigeria and lies between latitudes 8° 00’- 9°30’ N and longitudes 6°30’- 8°00’ E. First vertical derivative (1VD) technique was applied to the residual magnetic data of the study area using Oasis Montaj software version 8.3 and thereafter extracted lineaments from 1VD map using ArcGIS software version 10.4.1. Result of 1VD technique indicates that polyphase deformation was pervasive throughout the area as joints, fractures, faults, as well as folds in the map. Major lineament trends identified in the study area are NNE-SSW 27.47%, NE-SW 25.54%, ENE-WSW 18% and N-S 9.57%, the magnitudes and orientations of the lineaments are essential for groundwater movement. The study indicates that Dogon-Kurmi, Gitata, Rafin, Gurku, Karshi, Keffi, Paiko, Farindoki, Takuti, Lambata, Izom, Tudun Wada, Safon Lapai, Mayaki, Gwagwalada, Gidan Ali, Takura, Dafa, Dangara, Abaji, Kwali, Zuba, Madalla, Gauraka, Suleja, Kuje, Abuja, Bwari, Udegi, Zango-Daji, eastern part of Katakwa, Gadabuke, Buga, Koton-Karfe, Bibirako, Kworaki, Toto, Dagoshi and Umaisha have good groundwater prospect. Fieldwork conducted in the area confirmed the existence of lineaments/fractures in the area and as such are targets for groundwater exploration.