The resulting map was delineated into three different zones: low, moderate, and high, occupying 20% (627 km 2), 77% (2352 km 2), and 3% (80 km 2) respectively. Normalization of the weights was achieved through the analytical hierarchical process (AHP), while the overall integration of the thematic maps was actualized by overlay analysis in ArcGIS 10.3.1 environment to generate a final groundwater recharge zone map of the area. Seven thematic layers comprising elevation, slope, land use/land cover, drainage density, lithology, magnetic lineament density, and hydraulic head were integrated based on their degree of influence in groundwater recharge. In this study, remote sensing and geographic information system were deployed to delineate groundwater recharge zones in semi-arid geological transition zones of Bauchi, northeastern Nigeria.
Thus, judicious management of available groundwater resources becomes crucial to meet the freshwater requirements in such zones. The increasing demand for water occasioned by harsh climatic conditions, population explosion, and increasing urbanization has necessitated more attention and reliance on groundwater resources, particularly in water-limited regions.