Existence of subsurface structures from aeromagnetic data interpretation of the crustal architecture around Ibi, Middle Benue, Nigeria

Abstract

Aeromagnetic data acquired over Ibi area within the Middle Benue Trough, Nigeria, has been interpreted to successfully mapped regional structural features that are favorable for economic mineral deposits. The 3D Euler deconvolution technique provided estimated depth values for the regional structural features while the deduced source parameter imaging gave depth estimates to magnetic basement of the study area. The latter map shows two major sub-basins with depth values between 2700 m and 3300 m. Since the magnetic basement depth estimates could be used as a proxy for the thickness of sedimentary formation of the region, the sedimentary formation is sufficiently thick for fossil maturation and therefore confirms that hydrocarbon exploration may be plausible within the region. The combined assessment of magnetic source edge location and magnetic basement depth values offers valuable information on the subsurface configuration, which is very important for mineral and hydrocarbon exploration within Ibi area.