Assessment of Groundwater Potential and Vulnerability Using Electrical Resistivity Techniques: A Case Study of the FUPRE Campus and Agbarho Axis, Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

The quality and availability of groundwater are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic activities, including oil extraction and inadequate environmental management. This study focuses on the groundwater potential and vulnerability of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE) campus and Agbarho axis in Delta State. The research employs Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) techniques to assess the subsurface structure and derive geoelectric parameters, such as transverse unit resistance (Tr), longitudinal resistance (ρL), and transverse resistivity (ρt), which inform the groundwater potential and vulnerability. The study also integrates second-order geoelectric indices, including Dar Zarrouk’s parameters, to evaluate aquifer protective capacity using the GOD index and longitudinal conductance. Results indicate that while parts of the study area exhibit promising groundwater potential (high Tr values), the overall aquifer protective capacity is poor, with low longitudinal conductance values suggesting a high susceptibility to contamination. Geoelectric curve types, resistivity contrast, and coefficient of anisotropy further reveal a heterogeneous subsurface with varying permeability and porosity. The GOD index categorizes most of the area as moderately vulnerable to contamination, highlighting the need for enhanced groundwater management. This study underscores the importance of integrating hydrogeological and geophysical data for effective groundwater exploration, management, and protection in regions at risk of contamination.