Hello, I'm

Visaa Paul Barida

GeologistGeophysicistResearcherEducator

Exploring the Earth. Advancing Knowledge. Transforming Lives.

About Me

Exploration and Mining Geologist with expertise in economic geology, mineral exploration, geological investigations, and the application of integrated geoscience approaches to support mineral resource development.

Background

Experienced in geological mapping, ore deposit evaluation, resource assessment, mining studies, and geophysical interpretation. My Master's research focused on integrated multifactorial analysis for cut-off grade optimization at the Itakpe Open Pit Mine, Kogi State, Nigeria, applying geological and analytical approaches to improve mining decision-making and resource utilization.

I have also conducted research on lead-zinc-baryte mineralization exploration in Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, using induced polarization (IP) and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) techniques for subsurface investigation and mineral targeting. In addition, I carried out geophysical mapping of contaminant plumes in Ogoni, Rivers State, Nigeria, applying geophysical methods for environmental assessment and subsurface characterization.

Education

  • M.Sc. Exploration and Mining Geology, University of Port Harcourt, 2026. Thesis on cut-off grade optimization at Itakpe open-pit mine (CGPA 3.86/4.0).
  • B.Tech. Geology/Mining Technology, University of Port Harcourt, awarded June 2018. Thesis on the operating stripping ratio for mine planning and design of Itakpe open-pit mine.

Interests

My professional interests include economic geology, mineral exploration, applied geophysics, resource evaluation, mining geology, and sustainable mineral development.

Vision

I am committed to integrating geological, geophysical, and analytical techniques to support responsible exploration, improve mining outcomes, and contribute to innovative solutions in the earth sciences.

My Areas of Expertise

GeologyEarth's systems
and processes
GeophysicsImaging the
subsurface
Mining & ExplorationResources for a
sustainable future
Environmental GeosciencePeople, planet,
resilience
Research & Data AnalysisBetter data.
Better decisions.
Education & MentorshipBuilding the next
generation

Education & Experience

  • University of Port HarcourtB.Tech. Geology/Mining Technology
  • University of Port HarcourtM.Sc. Exploration and Mining Geology
  • Research ExperienceGraduate Research Assistant, UNEP collaboration & Mining Geology Lab
  • Teaching ExperienceGeography & GIS Instructor, Robotics and AI Educator
  • Leadership RolesPresident, SEG Nigeria Student Chapter
  • CertificationsESCAP, YALI, ALISON, Philanthropy University
Knowledge, when shared, multiplies.

Research & Projects

Itakpe Open Pit Mine

Cut-off Grade Optimization

Uburu Pb-Zn-Baryte Project

Mineral Exploration

Ogoni Contaminant Plumes

Geophysical Mapping

Hydrocarbon Pollution Study

Pollution & Remediation

Economic Geology in Namibia

April 2026 | Damara Belt, Namibia&| Society of Economic Geologists Field Expedition

Publications / Academic Work

  • M.Sc. Thesis, Itakpe Open Pit Mine 2026
  • Research Papers (3 under review) 2026
  • Conferences & Workshops 2015 – 2024
  • Field Reports 2014 – 2026

Selected Areas

  • Geoscience & Mineral Resources
  • Environmental & Hydrogeophysics
  • GIS, Remote Sensing & Geostatistics
  • Sustainable Mining & Energy Transition

Leadership & Impact

SEG Nigeria Student ChapterPresident
Teaching & MentoringStudents & young geoscientists
Community & ChurchMinistry & outreach
Professional NetworksSEG, NMGS, GSN & more

Let's Connect

Feel free to reach out for collaborations, opportunities, or just to say hello.