Gold Exploration Using Aeromagnetic Method in Bauchi North East Nigeria

Abdulmajid Isa Jibrin; Yusuf Abdulmumin; Abdullateef Lawal; Idris Ismail Kariya; Fatima Saidu; Hamza Yelwa Mohammed

Abdulmajid Isa Jibrin Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi
Yusuf Abdulmumin
Abdullateef Lawal
Idris Ismail Kariya
Fatima Saidu
Hamza Yelwa Mohammed

Keywords: Aeromagnetic susceptibility, Magnetic susceptibility, Magnetic survey, Bauchi, Rimin Zyam

Abstract

Rimin Zyam an area within Bauchi was investigated for possible mineralization of gold and other important metallic minerals. The host rocks are low to medium grade migmatites that were formed during the Pan- African orogeny with composition ranging between intermediate to mafic which corresponds to gabbroic to dioritic compositions. The mineralization is as a result of intruding by late mineralizing fluid into the Pan- African migmatites in the area. The type of mineralization in the area are mainly vein filing and replacement deposits. Based on the aeromagnetic images of the area, different magnetic susceptibility contrast was identified between the migmatites, younger granites and other sedimentary cover in the area. The migmatites have higher magnetic susceptibility and high intensity of interconnected fractures that are trending NW-SE, NE-SW and minor E-W that are interconnected. These fractures are regional and may serve as conduits for hydrothermal mineralization. Because of the sharp contrast, ground magnetics was recommended especially within the migmatites in order to airmark areas for possible drilling. The aeromagnetic images show large anomalies to the east of the study area which is an indication of magnetic responses for gold ore mineralization. These points that have high anomalies are suitable points for drilling.

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