Integrated hydrogeochemical and multivariate statistical assessment of groundwater in Gashua, northeastern Nigeria: implications for arid zone aquifer management

Abstract Groundwater is the primary source of potable and irrigation water in Gashua, Northeastern Nigeria, where arid climatic conditions limit surface water availability. Unlike previous studies in the Chad Basin that focused on limited chemical parameters, this study applies integrated geospatial modelling and multivariate statistics to delineate hydrochemical facies and anthropogenic hotspots in a semi-arid aquifer. Twenty-five groundwater samples were analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total hardness, major cations (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Na⁺, K⁺), and anions (Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻, NO₃⁻, HCO₃⁻). Results showed pH values from 5.7 to 7.9, EC between 415 and 1464 µS/cm, and TDS from 265.6 to 937.0 mg/L. 80% (20/25) of the samples exceeded the Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) limit for hardness. Piper and Durov diagrams revealed Ca²⁺–Mg²⁺–Cl⁻–SO₄²⁻ and Ca²⁺–Mg²⁺–HCO₃⁻ facies, reflecting carbonate and sulphate dissolution, cation exchange, and evaporative concentration. Spatial analysis delineated recharge zones in the north and discharge zones in the south, with higher salinity and nitrate levels in peri-urban areas. Nitrate ranged from 10.8 to 88 mg/L, with one sample exceeding the World Health Organization (WHO) limit of 50 mg/L; sampling was conducted during the dry season. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) explained 79% of total variance and identified mineralization, pH buffering, and nitrate pollution as key processes. Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) classified wells into recharge, transitional, and discharge zones. Irrigation suitability assessed by SAR, Na⁺%, PI, KR, and MH confirmed that most samples are suitable, though moderate salinity (C2S1) and isolated sodicity risks highlight the need for site-specific management. These findings emphasize the vulnerability of groundwater to both natural geochemical evolution and human activities. The integrated hydrogeochemical and multivariate approach provides actionable implications: protecting recharge areas in the north, routine surveillance of southern salinity and nitrate hotspots, and tailored farmer advisories for irrigation practices. Such measures are critical for sustainable aquifer management in arid regions.