Aeromagnetic Investigation of Structural Controls and Gold Mineralization Potential in the Zuru Schist Belt, Northwestern Nigeria

Gold mineralization within the Zuru Schist Belt of northwestern Nigeria is structurally controlled, but detailed delineation of subsurface structures and prospective mineralization zones in the Donko area remains limited. This study aimed to delineate geological structures and identify zones potentially favourable for gold mineralization using aeromagnetic data covering the Donko, Gwashi, Zuru and Wasagu map sheets. High-resolution aeromagnetic data obtained from the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency were processed using Oasis montaj. Total Magnetic Intensity, residual magnetic field, upward continuation, First Vertical Derivative, analytical signal, Source Parameter Imaging and Euler deconvolution techniques were applied to enhance magnetic anomalies, delineate structural features and estimate magnetic-source depths. The results revealed heterogeneous magnetic responses characterized by a dominant NE–SW structural trend, with subordinate NW–SE and N–S orientations. Source Parameter Imaging produced depth estimates ranging from approximately 94 to 554 m, while Euler deconvolution yielded depths of 177–509 m for structural index 1 and 356.6–803.8 m for structural index 2. Prominent magnetic lineaments and clustered magnetic-source solutions occur around the Donko mining area and extend toward the northeastern, central and southern parts of the study area. Areas characterized by intersecting lineaments, pronounced magnetic gradients and shallow-to-moderate magnetic sources were identified as prospective zones for gold mineralization. The study demonstrates that integrated aeromagnetic interpretation provides an effective approach for delineating structurally controlled mineralization targets and offers a basis for detailed exploration and field verification within the study area.