APPLIED JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Integrity Research Journals
ISSN: 2756-6684
Model: Open Access/Peer Reviewed
DOI: 10.31248/AJPS
Start Year: 2018
Email: ajps@integrityresjournals.org
Delineation of subsurface geological structures within Lower Benue Trough, Nigeria for possible mineral exploration targets using Airborne Magnetic Data
https://doi.org/10.31248/AJPS2025.131 | Article Number: 207061303 | Vol.7 (3) - June 2026
Received Date: 27 August 2025 | Accepted Date: 11 November 2025 | Published Date: 30 June 2026
Authors: Chigoziem C. Onyekwelu , Gabriel N. Egwuonwu , Izuchukwu I. Obiadi and Ejike K. Nnaemeka*
Keywords: lineaments, CET, Lower Benue, magnetic data, mineral exploration
A set of secondary airborne magnetic data of some parts of the lower Benue Trough, Nigeria, was analysed and interpreted to delineate subsurface structures that may harbour economic minerals for economic development. The interpretation is aimed at determining the viability of the area’s mineral potential for possible harnessing. The data was subjected to various enhancement techniques such as reduction to the equator (RTE), first vertical derivative (FVD), analytical signal and centre for exploration targeting (CET). The results of the first vertical derivative (FVD), analytical signal and centre for exploration targeting (CET) enhanced and identified the magnetic signatures that represent the geological structures (lineament) of the area, as revealed by the rose diagram, suggesting major lineament at NE-SW, E-W, ENE-WSW and minor trends at N-S, NW-SE, NNE-SSW directions. These lineaments serve as traps and conduits for solid minerals that may be entrapped within the area. The most prolific areas detected by the enhancement techniques correspond to Okpom, Ogoja, Oju, Gboko, Tse-Agbera, Ikom, Boje, Ugep, Igumale, Abakaliki, Iboko, Effum, Isi-Uzo, Ankpa, and Otupko. If properly harnessed, these areas will contribute to the country's natural resource reserve.
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