Integrated Aeromagnetic Structural Mapping and Magnetic Source Depth Estimation of the Kaduna Basement Complex, Northwestern Nigeria: Implications for Regional Tectonics and Mineral Exploration

Hussaini Abdulkareem, Abdullahi N Khalid, Cyril G Afuwai, Isa Y Hassan, Abdulhadi Danlami, and Mustapha T Lawal
2026-09-04 11 views 1 downloads

 

This study presents an integrated aeromagnetic investigation of Kaduna State, northwestern Nigeria, to delineate subsurface structures and estimate magnetic source depths within the Nigerian Basement Complex. Twenty-one high-resolution aeromagnetic datasets were analyzed using Reduction-to-Equator (RTE), Horizontal Gradient Magnitude (HGM), Centre for Exploration Targeting (CET), Euler Deconvolution, and Source Parameter Imaging (SPI). RTE anomalies range from ?121.893 to 68.977 nT, reflecting lithological contrasts and structural features. HGM and CET analyses reveal dominant NE–SW and NW–SE structural trends associated with Pan-African deformation. Euler deconvolution indicates that SI = 1 provides the most coherent solutions, with depths ranging from less than 250 m to greater than 750 m, predominantly between 250 and 500 m. SPI estimates source depths of approximately 85–790 m, with deeper sources concentrated in the northwestern, southeastern, and southern sectors. The spatial correspondence among HGM maxima, CET lineaments, Euler solutions, and SPI-derived depths delineates a fault-controlled structural network and identifies structurally favourable zones for further mineral exploration and ground geophysical investigation. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of integrated aeromagnetic techniques for regional structural mapping and mineral exploration targeting in Precambrian basement terrains.

 

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