2-dimensional modeling of high-resolution aeromagnetic data over Yola arm of the upper Benue trough, Northeastern Nigeria

Abstract

2-D modeling of high-resolution aeromagnetic data over the area investigated was carried out with the aid of Oasis Montaj^TM software in order to get the total magnetic intensity map as well as the residual map from where the modeling was carried out. The data was acquired for Nigeria Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) in 2010 by Fugro international of Netherlands. The specifications of the data were terrain clearance of 80 m, flight line spacing of 500 m and a tie line spacing of 5000 m. The area investigated in this work is located between longitude 12⁰ 00' - 13⁰ 30' E and Latitude 8⁰ 00' – 10⁰ 00'N. GM-SYS module of the Oasis montaj was used for this research, with depocentres, structural patterns, basement geometry and morphology as well as estimates of the physical character of the cause to an investigated anomaly determined. The models reveal the horst and graben structures of the basement and the various faults that segmented the area into block patterns. The results revealed sediment thickness in the range of 2-5 km for the models which are in agreement with the results obtained by various researchers in the area. Horst and graben were identified in the models which confirmed the rifting nature of the Benue Trough. The authors of this research are of the view that these depocentres, structural patterns and basement geometry may be a promising site for hydrocarbon traps and reservoirs.

Keywords: Aeromagnetic Data, GM-SYS, Modeling, Horst, Graben.