ABSTRACT

Aeromagnetic data obtained from the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency, Abuja were used to carry out this research. The study area is at the coordinates of 5°00′00′′ - 6°02′00′′ N and 7°00′00′′ - 8°01′00′′ E covering a distance of about 12, 100 km². The study area belongs to two geologic basins which include the Benue Trough and Niger Delta. These basins are known for their economic importance. The study aims at using a computer program to spectrally analyse and compute the sedimentary thickness of the area and correlate the geological and the enhanced aeromagnetic maps for solid minerals deposit. Also, to estimate the hydrocarbon window, Curie point depth, geothermal gradient and heat flow within the study area. The obtained data were processed and enhanced using applicable techniques. Two depth sources were revealed; using Geosoft’s Oasis montaj version 7.1; these are sedimentary thickness of 7.9 km for deeper sources and 0.42 km for shallower sources. The Curie point estimated in the study area ranges from 7.1 km to 12.5 km with an average of 10.1 km. Qualitative analysis of the study area shows that it is structurally controlled, giving room to mineralization; and the shallow source depth of 0.42 km in the study could be attributed to intrusion and mineralization. Shallow depths encourage mineralization, and the study area is endowed with solid minerals (Fig. 2). Geothermal gradient and heat flow estimated in the study averaged at 59.7°C/km and 149.3 mWm^-2 respectively.  The high geothermal gradient in the area is as a result of the rifting and metamorphic activities in the host basins. The sedimentary thickness (7.9 km deep) and geothermal gradient averaging 59.7°C/km are testaments to possible hydrocarbon accumulation in the area.