GEOLOGY AND GROUNDWATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF BAZZA, AND ENVIRONS, HAWAL MASSIF, NORTHEASTERN NIGERIA.
Abstract
This study investigates the geology and groundwater quality of Bazza and its environs within the Hawal Massif, Northeastern Nigeria which comprises granites-gneiss, migmatites and granites. This study evaluate its suitability for domestic and agricultural uses. Fifteen groundwater samples were collected from hand-dug wells and boreholes and analyzed for physicochemical and bacteriological parameters in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) standards. Results show that the groundwater is generally alkaline (pH 7.74–8.93), fresh, and moderately hard, with total dissolved solids ranging from 174 to 202 mg/L. Major cations and anions occur in the order Ca²⁺ > Mg²⁺ > K⁺ > Na⁺ and HCO₃⁻ > SO₄²⁻ > Cl⁻ > NO₃⁻ respectively, indicating a Ca–Mg–HCO₃ hydrochemical facies typical of recently recharged groundwater derived from silicate weathering. The Water Quality Index (WQI) values classify all samples as “good” for drinking, although coliform counts (2–4 cfu/mL) suggest minor bacteriological contamination requiring minimal treatment before consumption. Irrigation indices such as Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Kelly’s Ratio (KR), and Permeability Index (PI) indicate that the groundwater is excellent for agricultural use, though Magnesium Adsorption Ratio (MAR) slightly exceeded the recommended limit in some samples. Overall, the groundwater in Bazza and environs is suitable for domestic and irrigation purposes, with minor precautionary measures recommended to maintain its quality.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.