In the intricate landscapes of Nigeria’s Basement Complex terrains, where the demand for sustainable water resources has reached a critical point, a pioneering research initiative is revolutionizing the assessment of groundwater potential. Faced with challenges in both domestic and industrial water supply exacerbated by the region’s complex hydrogeologic characteristics, the study integrates remote sensing, Geographic Information System (GIS), and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) techniques to map groundwater potential zones.
The comprehensive approach involves the creation of seven thematic maps, focusing on crucial factors like geology, lineament density, slope, drainage density, rainfall, land-use/land cover, and soil class. These factors, known for their impact on groundwater dynamics, undergo a rigorous analysis using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to assign normalized weights.
In the GIS environment, the Weighted Overlay tool processes these weighted thematic maps, producing the Groundwater Potential Zones (GPZ). This nuanced classification system, ranging from Very Good to Very Poor, provides insights into the distribution and intensity of groundwater potential across the study area. The percentage allocations to each class offer a quantitative understanding of the relative prevalence of these potential zones.
Beyond its scientific intricacies, the research holds practical significance. The Groundwater Potential Zones map emerges as a valuable reconnaissance tool, guiding decision-makers in selecting prospective sites for detailed groundwater resource exploitation. This recommendation underscores the research’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge while contributing to the practical management and sustainable utilization of groundwater resources.
In conclusion, this research represents a convergence of scientific inquiry and real-world problem-solving. Through advanced technologies, diverse datasets, and a systematic assessment framework, it lays the groundwork for informed decision-making in addressing water scarcity challenges.
