Investigation of Groundwater Potential at Fatima Shema Housing Estate Katsina Northern Nigeria

Groundwater exploration in Fatima Shema Housing Estate Katsina (FSHEK) has faced challenges due to inconsistent results and limited academic research. To address this, a geophysical survey using Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) was conducted at 8 locations using Schlumberger array with the maximum current electron (AB/2) of 120 m. This study aims to optimize borehole locations by assessing the electrical resistivity characteristics of subsurface layers. To achieve this, the Schlumberger array was employed in a (VES) survey. The data were analysed using IPI2Win software, the software was used for interpreting the VES data through automatic curve matching and inversion, allowing estimation of subsurface layer resistivities and thicknesses. IPI2Win software reveal the subsurface structures and groundwater potentials. The subsurface consists of 4 layers overburden, weathered zones, fractured zones and consolidated bedrock. The Aquifer found in the third layer exhibits resistivity values between 68.7 Ωm and 391 Ωm with a thickness of up to 37.1 m indicating good groundwater storage. Analysis shows that VES 1 to VES 5 have favourable conditions for groundwater at depths of 12 m to 50 m. Conversely, VES 6 to VES 8 indicate poor groundwater potential due to high resistivity and limited aquifer thickness. This study identifies VES 1 to VES 5 as promising sites for groundwater development and provides valuable insights for sustainable water resource management in the area.