Geophysical Interpretation of Abakaliki And Bansara Area, Lower Benue Trough Nigeria Using Airborne Gravity Data

              ABSTRACT

The Geophysical Airborne gravity data of Abakaliki and Bansara area of Lower Benue Trough Nigeria was interpreted qualitative and quantitative in order to determine the sedimentary thickness/depth to basement and the possibility of hydrocarbons accumulation in the area and also to determine the density contrast and different rock types or rock bearing minerals present in the area. Source Parameter Imaging (SPI) and Forward and Inverse modeling techniques were employed in quantitative interpretation. It was found that bouguer gravity anomaly value of Abakalilki and Bansara ranges from -14.7 mGal to 12.8 mGal while the residual anomaly ranges from -12.6 mGal to 11.4 mGal. The SPI depth ranges from -1002.5 to -7733.3 m. This depths show thick sediment that is feasible for hydrocarbon accumulation. The depths of forward and inverse modeling for profiles 1-6 were estimated to be -2328, -1777, -1404, -2431, -1513 and -2036 m respectively with their respective density values of 2.550, 2.700, 1.980, 2.630, 2.550 and 2.700 g/cm3. These indicate that the presence of limestone, marble, graphite and granite causes the anomaly observed in the area.The study area has revealed potentials for mineral deposits, which could serve as raw material for many factories and industries in Nigeria.