All you must know about drilling a borehole in Nigeria

However, drilling a borehole requires a certain degree of expertise. This article will teach you more about borehole drilling, the types, cost, site selection, and everything in between.

Let’s get into it.

1. Types of borehole drilling

There are two general methods of borehole drilling in Nigeria: manual borehole drilling and heavy-duty borehole drilling.

1.1 Manual borehole drilling

This method of drilling is cheaper than the heavy-duty drilling method. However, it requires more workforce and time. It is estimated to take between 7-14 days before completion. This drilling method is carried out without heavy machinery, making it the standard choice for those in less civilized areas. A certain level of expertise is needed for successful manual drilling.

1.2 Heavy-duty borehole drilling

The heavy-duty borehole drilling method saves more time but is more expensive than the manual method. About 2-7 days are typically needed to complete this project and fewer people. This method is also believed to produce cleaner water than the manual method.

2. Things to consider before drilling a borehole

2.1 The groundwater level

When selecting a borehole location, evaluating the local groundwater level is crucial. You should aim for places with higher water tables for the most significant water pressure.

Call a hydrogeological expert to evaluate all the potential places to ascertain the groundwater depths. When you have the results, you may decide where to drill your bore based on the highest water table.

2.2 Site evaluation

Call experts to conduct a site survey to determine if your house is suitable for borehole drilling without harming the occupants. Consider factors like geology, available space, and soil type. You should also allow the geologists to make recommendations on the best practices.

2.3 Legal requirement

Investigate and abide by any regulations, permits, or licenses relating to borehole installation in your area. Contact the local authorities and consult professionals in the field to ensure you obtain any necessary approval.

2.4 Maintenance routine

Boreholes still require a certain level of maintenance for optimal performance. Consider the type of borehole pumping machine and how to maintain periodic cleaning. Ensure you have an understanding of the routine.

2.5 Cost implication

Its only wise to analyze the cost of the project before commencing. Consider the initial drilling expenses, the pump installation, and the hidden costs.

It is said that installing a borehole in Nigeria comes with a lot of hidden costs, so its best to be armed before the battle. Also, consider the cost of maintenance.

3. What are the steps in drilling a borehole?

Step 1: Site examination by hydrogeologists

These professionals tell where the water is and examine the geophysical area to ensure the drilling process is carried out safely without any hazards.

Step 2: Start the drilling

Work can commence after the hydrogeologists have mapped out a path for drilling the borehole.

However, this stage is more arduous than it seems. Contrary to popular opinion, an unlimited water supply wont immediately surge to the surface after the borehole drilling is over. There are some other procedures to follow and tasks to finish.

Step 3: Aquifer testing

Aquifer testing is conducted to determine a household water boreholes yield accurately.

To achieve this, set up a test pump. This entails pumping the borehole water for a specific time at a fixed rate and analyzing the tests effects on the boreholes water level, determining the yield of the borehole.

Step 4: Piping and borehole pump installation

The type of pump or the piping system is highly subjective to what you want to achieve with your borehole and the service you want it to serve.

4. Cost of drilling a borehole in Nigeria

Several factors determine the cost of drilling a borehole in Nigeria, such as location, drilling method, depth, geological condition, etc.

The manual drilling process in some regions can cost as low as NGN120,000 to NGN 350,000. At the same time, heavy-duty drilling can cost as low as NGN 300,000 in some regions and as high as NGN 3,000,000.

5. Final words

You can oversee your water supply and never run out of supply. Your borehole can be structured to cater to your original intentions effectively. 

At Daibau Group, we have experts to handle your borehole installation following the best practices suitable for your home. Although you need a certain amount of money before embarking on this project, we work within your budget.

Our professionals have worked with clients all over Nigeria and beyond. Get in touch, and we will connect you to the best in the industry. Use the link below.