Aeromagnetic lineament mapping and structural implications of the Wase area, North-Central Nigeria

Abstract

Aeromagnetic interpretation is an effective approach for delineating subsurface geological structures that control mineralization within crystalline basement terrains. This study investigates the structural framework of the Wase area, north-central Nigeria, using high-resolution aeromagnetic data obtained from the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA). The objective was to identify structural lineaments and evaluate their implications for mineral exploration. Total Magnetic Intensity (TMI) data were processed through regional–residual separation, First Vertical Derivative (FVD), Second Vertical Derivative (SVD), and Analytic Signal Amplitude (ASA) techniques to enhance shallow magnetic anomalies and structural discontinuities. The processed data revealed numerous faults, fractures, lithological contacts, and intrusive bodies. Rose diagram analysis indicated that NE–SW is the dominant structural trend, with subordinate NW–SE, N–S, and E–W orientations, reflecting the influence of the Pan-African orogeny and subsequent tectonic reactivation associated with the Benue Trough. Lineament density analysis identified the western and northwestern parts of the study area as zones of intense structural deformation that may have served as pathways for hydrothermal fluid migration and mineralization. The results demonstrate that integrated aeromagnetic derivative techniques provide a reliable, rapid, and cost-effective approach for structural mapping and reconnaissance mineral exploration within the Nigerian Basement Complex.