Determination of hydrocarbon potentials in parts of Sokoto Basin, Northwestern Nigeria using spectral analysis technique

ABSTRACT

In this work, an attempt was made to estimate the depth to magnetic source and by inference, the thickness of sediments within parts of the Sokoto Basin, Northwestern Nigeria. Aeromagnetic data of Tambuwal (Sheet 50) was acquired, processed and interpreted. The regional field was separated from the total magnetic intensity (TMI) and the magnetic anomaly was obtained. The anomaly map was upward continued and divided into overlapping square grids of 27.5 km x 27.5 km. Spectral depth analysis was then carried out on each grid to infer areas of probable hydrocarbon prospects. The result of the spectral method indicated high sedimentation, generally greater than 2.00 km, trending NE-SW through the central portions. The central, particularly around Dogon Marke town and its environs, have the highest thickness of sediments (2.4 km). In conclusion, the central portion of the study area, particularly around Dogon Marke town and its environs has the highest prospect for hydrocarbon.

Keywords: Depth estimation, magnetic anomaly, power spectrum, sedimentation, upward continuation