Assessment of Groundwater Potential and Aquifer Vulnerability at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Using Vertical Electrical Sounding Technique
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Date
2026
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Centrepoint Journal
Abstract
Groundwater is critical for sustaining healthcare operations at the University of Ilorin
Teaching Hospital (UITH), supporting patient care and hygiene. However, urbanization,
pollution, and climate change threaten its quality and sustainability. This study evaluates
groundwater potential and aquifer vulnerability at UITH, employing Vertical Electrical
Sounding (VES) to assess subsurface resistivity and groundwater potential. Using a
Schlumberger electrode configuration, data were collected at 12 locations near failed
boreholesin order to validate layer thicknesses and depths. The VES results identified
three to four geo-electric layers, including topsoil, weathered basement, fractured
basement, and fresh basement. The aquifer vulnerability index (AVI) was applied to
classify and distinguish aquifer vulnerability within the study area.The aquifer resistivity
ranges from 27.9 Ωm to 522 Ωm, thickness ranges from 3.04 m to 67.6 m, and the depth
ranges from 3.57 m and 71.6 m. The curve types including H, A, HK, and HA reflect
lithological diversity and varying aquifer conditions.The weathered and fractured
basement layers exhibited significant groundwater potential, particularly at VES5 and
VES6, which showed high transmissivity values of 308.88 m²/day and 254.93 m²/day
respectively. Moderate potential was observed at VES1, VES2, VES9, and VES10, while
VES3, VES4, VES8, and VES12 showed lower potential due to thin weathered
layers.Aquifer vulnerability varied across sites, with VES6 and VES12 demonstrating
strong protection from contamination due to thick overburden, while VES4 and VES3
were highly susceptible. The study highlights the need for protective measures in
vulnerable areas and sustainable groundwater management to ensure a reliable water
supply for healthcare operations.
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Citation
Groundwater potential, Aquifer vulnerability, resistivity meter, Transmissivity, Hydraulic resistance