Identification of Gold targets using airborne geophysics and remote sensing data in part of northcentral Nigeria

Abstract

The exploration and utilization of economic mineral deposits are of paramount importance in driving the prosperity and progress of nations across the globe. An integrative approach of integrating aeromagnetic, airborne-radiometric, and remote-sensing methods was employed to assess gold mineralization zones within Paiko town in Niger state, northcentral Nigeria. Airborne-radiometric and remote-sensing datasets were utilized to map subsurface structures, lithological units, and hydrothermal alteration zones. The investigation delineated three major tectonic events along different directions: the ENE-WSW (D1) trending tectonic event, the WNW-ESE (D2) trending tectonic event, and NW-SE (D3) trending structural deformation event. The three deformation phases signify unique magnetic unit boundaries, lithological contacts, veins, and veinlets intrusions. These structures were interpreted as potential pathways for mineralization fluids. Moreover, the presence of high potassium-rich zones with low thorium/potassium ratio anomalies indicated potassium enrichments associated with sericite mica and K-feldspar minerals. The study also mapped various alterations of ferrous silicates, holding the potential to host gold and copper deposits, as well as endoskarn, epidot/chlorite/amphibole alterations, and phyllic minerals. Depth estimates derived from magnetic source parameters imaging techniques revealed that the mineralization targets in the area are relatively shallow, with depths ranging from the near-surface to less than 100 m. The delineation of mineralization zones in the study area convincingly demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating airborne geophysical and remote sensing data for exploring, developing, and managing subsurface mineral resources. This approach provides valuable insights into gold mineralization's presence, distribution, and characteristics, facilitating informed decision-making in mineral resource exploration and utilization.