CHAPTER ONE

1.1 INTRODUCTION
Geological maps show the distribution at the earth's surface of different kinds
of rocks. The geological map is a fundamental device of geologists. The
patterns on the map record the relationships between the rocks, from which
the geologist can deduce much about their arrangement underground and
about their geological history. A geological map may be a geologist's first
introduction to an area; it may also represent the culmination of investigation.
Maps are commonly used to assemble new information as it is obtained; they
are also a highly effective way of communicating new data to other geologists.
A geological map can act as a synthesis of current knowledge on the geology
of an area. Fieldwork is a very important activity for geologists, as geologists
are made in the field.

1.2 AIM AND OBJECTIVES

This fieldwork focuses on the geological mapping of the study area. This will
be achieved through the following objectives:
 To identify the different rock types found in the study area.
 To study the relationship between the rocks found.
 To find possible updates to the existing topographical map.

1.3 SCOPE OF STUDY

The scope of this study is focused on the intended study area, from where
specific findings will be made, and hence, the geology of the area is
established.

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1.4 LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY
This geological mapping was carried out in parts of Bosso, Minna, Niger State
by 200Level students of the Department of Geology, Federal University of
Technology, Minna. The mapped area falls between Latitudes 9038’00”N –
9040’00”N and Longitudes 6030’00”E and 6032’00”E.
The location can be accessed by road.

1.5 METHODOLOGY
 Establish through first hand contact, the geology of the study area.
 Examine the relationship between the different lithology encountered.

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY

With the successful completion of the fieldwork, students will possess better
understanding of the study area, and better understanding of geology.
Students will be better equipped to work in the field, and also become aware
of conditions in the field.

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 CHAPTER 2
2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 GEOLOGY OF NIGER STATE
Niger State, like other states on the same latitude, is covered by two major
rock formations; the sedimentary and basement complex rocks. The
sedimentary rocks to the south are characterized of sandstones and alluvial
deposits, particularly along the Niger valley and in most parts of Borgu,
Agaie, Lapai, Mokwa, Lavun, Gbako and Wushishi Local Government Areas.
This subarea also contains the extensive flood plains of the River Niger and
this has made the state to be one of the largest and most fertile agricultural
lands in the country. It also provides the best area for rice growing in Nigeria.
Perhaps this may account for the location of the National Cereals Research
Institute at Badeggi in the State.
To the north is the basement complex, characterized by granitic outcrops or
Inselbergs which can be found in the vast topography of rolling landscape.
Such inselbergs dominate the landscape in Rati, Shiroro, Minna, Mariga and
Gurara.
2.1.1 CLIMATE
The state experiences two distinct seasons; the dry and wet seasons. The
annual rainfall varies from about 1,600mm in the south to 1,200mm in the
north. The duration of the rainy season ranges from 150-210 days or more
from the north to the south.
Mean maximum temperature remains high throughout the year, particularly
in March and June. However, the lowest minimum temperatures occur usually
between December and January when most parts of the state come under the
influence of the tropical continental air mass which blows from the North. Dry
season in Niger State commences in October.
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2.1.2 SOILS AND VEGETATION
Three major soil types can be found in the State. These include the ferruginous
tropical soils, hydromorphic soils and ferrosols. The most predominant soil
type is the ferruginous tropical soils which are basically derived from the
Basement Complex rocks, as well as from old sedimentary rocks. Such
ferruginous tropical soils are ideal for the cultivation of gionea corn, maize,
millet and groundnut.
Hydromorphic or waterlogged soils are largely found in the extensive flood
plain of the Niger River. The soils are poorly drained and are generally greyish
or sometimes whitish in Color due to the high content of silt. Ferosols which
develop on sandstone formations can be found within the Niger trough.
2.1.3 MINERAL RESOURCES
Minerals such as gold, clay, silica and sand, granites, marble, copper, iron,
feldspar, lead, kaoline, cassiterite, columbite, tantalite and limestone are
known to exist in the state. However, most of these minerals have not been
quantified and assessed for their quality and economic viability.
The material resources outlined above provide local raw materials that would
form the basis of agro based and mineral based industries in the state.

2.2.0 SEDIMENTARY BASINS AND BASEMENT COMPLEX IN NIGERIA

2.2.1 SEDIMENTARY BASINS
Nigeria is underlain by seven major sedimentary basins:
 Anambra Basin
 Benin (Dahomey basin)
 Benue Trough
 Bida Basin

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  Chad Basin
 Niger Delta Basin
 Sokoto Basin
Sedimentary successions in these basins are of middle Mesozoic to recent age.
Older sedimentary deposits were not preserved, probably because during the
Paleozoic – early Mesozoic, what is now Nigeria was a broad regional
basement uplift, with no major basin subsidence for sediment accumulation.
The sedimentary successions in these basins are broadly divisible into:
1. Basal continental sandstones, siltstones, and mudstones;
2. Middle marine shales and limestones interbedded with sandstones and
siltstones.
3. Upper sandstone sequence that is continental or paralic.
2.2.2 BASEMENT COMPLEX
Basement complex rocks are subdivided into migmatite-gneiss complexes;
the older metasediments; the younger metasediments; the older granites; and
the younger granite alkaline ring complexes and volcanic rocks.
The migmatite gneiss complex is the commonest rock type in the Nigerian
Basement complex. It comprises two main types of gneisses: the biotite gneiss
and the banded gneiss. Very widespread, the biotitic gneisses are normally
fine-grained with strong foliation caused by the parallel arrangement of
alternating dark and light minerals.
The banded gneisses show alternating light-colored and dark bands and
exhibit intricate folding of their bands. The migmatite gneiss complex is the
oldest basement rock, and is believed to be of sedimentary origin but was later
profoundly altered into metamorphic and granite conditions. The older
metasediments were also among the earliest rocks to form on the Nigerian
Basement Complex. Initially of sedimentary origin, with a more extensive
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distribution, the older metaseiments underwent prolonged, repeated
metamorphism; and now occur as quartzite (ancient sandstones), marble
(ancient limestones), and other calcareous and relics of highly altered clay
sediments and igneous rocks.
Most parts of the Basement Complex are underlain by belts of roughly north-
soutg trending, slightly metamorphosed ancient Pre-Cambrian sedimentary
and volcanic rocks known as the younger metasediments. The major rock
types are ancient shaly rocks which are now referred to as quartz-biotite-
muscovite-schist. Schists with graphite, phyllites and chlorite are common.
Ferruginous quartzites also occur. The younger metasediments contain most
of the gold deposits in Nigeria in the northwest around Maru and Anka, and
at Zuru; near Kaduna, and also at Ilesha in Southwestern Nigeria.
Older granites are widespread throughout the Basement Complex and occur
as large circular masses within the schists and the older migmite-gneiss
complexes. The older granites vary extensively in composition. The younger
granite complexes in Nigeria are found mainly on the Jos Plateau, forming a
distinctive group of intrusive and volcanic rocks that are bounded by ring
dykes or ring faults. Other occurences approximate a north-south belt towards
the middle Benue in the south where the ages are younger, and towards Niger
Republic in the north where the younger granites are older. There is enormous
variety in the granite composition of these rocks.

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 CHAPTER THREE
3.1 METHODOLOGY
The approach to carrying out this fieldwork was done in a number of ways.
Basic information about the geology of Niger state was gotten by research, to
become familiar with the rock types expected to be encountered.
After acquiring required information, we received the map of the study area
and proceeded to map the area.
The area was mapped by walking around it, while observing different rock
types and taking necessary notes. The various locations were marked on the
base map, so as to facilitate the construction of the geological map of area
studied. Measurements were taken; which included Joint values and Joint
directions. Most of the work carried out was based on first hand observation
and collection of samples. Samples were collected and their properties were
observed and recorded. Properties looked out for include Color, Streak, Mode
of formation, fractures, weathering intensity, mineral constituent, texture, and
grain size. After noting the properties, the rock name is then suggested.
3.2 EQUIPMENT USED
A number of equipment were required to successfully carryout field mapping
of the area.
 A compass clinometer was used to note direction, and to measure Joint
values and Joint direction.
 A Global Positioning System (GPS) was used to get the Latitude,
Longitude and Elevation of each location.
 A Geological hammer was used to take rock samples.
 A Sample bag was used to collect samples from locations.
 Meter rules were used to measure fault displacements.

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  Cameras and Mobile Phones were used to take photos of outcrops, and
other features on the rocks.
The availability of these equipment made the field mapping exercise
successful and also facilitated the work. Geologists are made in the field, and
every geologist needs his/her equipment to carryout field exercises
effectively.

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 CHAPTER FOUR
4.1 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The rocks found in Block 4 were igneous rocks (Granitic rocks). Their
properties varied greatly though; Intrusive rocks and extrusive rocks alike
were found. The rocks underwent different degrees of weathering and they
also possessed different textures.
Most of the rocks had intrusions resulting in veins; quartz and pegmatite were
found to have healed some of the fractures in the rocks. The mapped area is
composed of entirely granitic rocks.
4.1.1 GRANITE: Granite is a light-colored rock with grains large enough to be
visible with the unaided eye. It forms from the slow crystallization of magma
below Earth’s surface. Granite is composed mainly of quartz and feldspar with
minor amounts of mica, amphiboles, and other minerals. This mineral
composition usually gives granite a red, pink, gray, or white color with dark
mineral grains visible throughout the rock.
Granite is the best known igneous rock. Many people recognize granite
because it is the most common igneous rock found at Earth’s surface and
because granite is used to make many objects that we encounter in daily life.
These include counter tops, floor tiles, paving stone, curbing, stair treads,
building veneer, and cemetery monuments. Granite is used all around us.
4.1.2 RHYOLITE: Rhyolite is an extrusive igneous rock with a very high silica
content. It is usually pink or gray in color with grains so small that they are
difficult to observe without a hand lens. Rhyolite is made up of quartz,
plagioclase, and sanidine, with minor amounts of hornblende and biotite.
Trapped gases often produce vugs in the rock. These often contain crystals,
opal, or glassy material.

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 Many rhyolites form from granitic magma that has partially cooled in the
subsurface. When these magmas erupt, a rock with two grain sizes can form.
The large crystals that formed beneath the surface are called phenocrysts, and
the small crystals formed at the surface are called groundmass.
Rhyolite usually forms in continental or continent margin volcanic eruptions
where granitic magma reaches the surface. Rhyolite is rarely produced at
oceanic eruptions.
4.2 FIELD RESULTS
LOCATION 1:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o 31’53”E and 9o39’36”N
Elevation 276m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive, granitic rock, which has probably
been exposed by erosion and uplift.
Texture Coarse grained
Weathering Intensity Moderate (Physically)
Discontinuities Faults and Joints
Structural deformation Exfoliation
Mineral Composition Feldspar, Quartz and Mica
Intrusion Quartz vein
Suggested Name Granitic rock

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LOCATION 2:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o31’56”E and 9o39’44”N
Elevation 312m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Coarse Grained
Weathering Intensity Massive (Physically)
Discontinuities Faults and Joints
Structural deformation None
Mineral Composition Quartz, Feldspar and Mica
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 3:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o31’32”E and 9o40’02”N
Elevation 294m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Medium grained
Weathering Intensity Well weathered (Physically)
Discontinuities Joints
Structural deformation Exfoliation
Mineral Composition Quartz, Feldspar and Muscovite
Intrusion None

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Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 4:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o31’23”E and 9o39’55”N
Elevation 295m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Medium grained
Weathering Intensity Moderate (Physically)
Discontinuities Faults and Joints
Structural deformation Exfoliation
Mineral Composition Quartz, Feldspar and Mica
Intrusion Quartz Vein
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 5:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o31’24”E and 9o39’39”N
Elevation 284m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Coarse Grained
Weathering Intensity Massive (Physically and Mechanically)
Discontinuities Faults and Joints
Structural deformation None

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Mineral Composition Quartz, Feldspar and Mica
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 6:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o30’36”E and 9o38’27”N
Elevation 254m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Coarse Grained
Weathering Intensity Moderate (Physically)
Discontinuities Faults and Joints
Structural deformation None
Mineral Composition Feldspar, Quartz and Mica
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 7:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o30’12”E and 9o38’25”N
Elevation 264m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Medium grained
Weathering Intensity Lightly

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Discontinuities Joints
Structural deformation None
Mineral Composition Mica, Quartz, and Feldspar
Intrusion Quartz Vein
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 8:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o30’11”E and 9o38’24”N
Elevation 262m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Medium Grained
Weathering Intensity Moderate
Discontinuities Joints
Structural deformation None
Mineral Composition Quartz, Mica and Feldspar
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 9:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o29’59”E and 9o38’24”N
Elevation 259m
Color Dark colored
Origin Intrusive

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Texture Coarse grained
Weathering Intensity Massive
Discontinuities Joints and Faults
Structural deformation Exfoliation
Mineral Composition Quartz, Feldspar and Mica
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 10:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o30’55”E and 9o39’19”N
Elevation 265m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Coarse Grained
Weathering Intensity Lightly
Discontinuities Joints and Faults
Structural deformation None
Mineral Composition Quartz, Feldspar and Mica
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 11:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o31’03”E and 9o38’33”N
Elevation 276m

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Color Light color
Origin Intrusive
Texture Coarse Grained
Weathering Intensity Moderate
Discontinuities Joints
Structural deformation None
Mineral Composition Quartz, Feldspar and Mica
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 12:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o30’58”E and 9o38’58”N
Elevation 268m
Color Light color
Origin Intrusive
Texture Medium grained
Weathering Intensity Moderate
Discontinuities Joints
Structural deformation Exfoliation
Mineral Composition Feldspar, Quartz and Mica
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 13:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION

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Coordinates 6o31’01”E and 9o38’20”N
Elevation 288m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Medium grained
Weathering Intensity Massive
Discontinuities Joints
Structural deformation Exfoliation
Mineral Composition Quartz, Feldspar and Mica
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 14:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o31’16”E and 9o38’28”N
Elevation 275m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Coarse grained
Weathering Intensity Massive
Discontinuities Joints
Structural deformation Exfoliation
Mineral Composition Quartz, Feldspar and Mica
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

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LOCATION 15:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o31’20”E and 9o38’21”N
Elevation 241m
Color Light colored
Origin Extrusive
Texture Fine grained
Weathering Intensity Moderate
Discontinuities Faults and Joints
Structural deformation Exfoliation
Mineral Composition Quartz, Feldspar and Mica
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 16:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o31’35”E and 9o38’13”N
Elevation 255m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Medium grained
Weathering Intensity Massive
Discontinuities Faults and Joints
Structural deformation Exfoliation
Mineral Composition Quartz, Feldspar and Mica
Intrusion Quartz Vein

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 Suggested Name Granitic Rock

LOCATION 17:
ROCK PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Coordinates 6o31’47”E and 9o38’30”N
Elevation 270m
Color Light colored
Origin Intrusive
Texture Medium grained
Weathering Intensity Moderate
Discontinuities Faults and Joints
Structural deformation Exfoliation
Mineral Composition Feldspar, Quartz and Mica
Intrusion None
Suggested Name Granitic Rock

It can be observed from the results above that the study area is composed
entirely of granitic rocks.
Joint values taken are as follows:

091 006 060 128 112 004 130 003 011 090 052 148 160 070 120
025 086 156 020 092 112 024 174 167 103 086 012 004 103 020
056 101 096 077 080 012 032 043 088 088 032 043 012 096 030
046 052 004 009 070 067 140 042 114 093 139 005 120 070 050

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 CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1 CONCLUSION
This field work was aimed at the thorough study of the given area to find out
the geology of the area, and to produce a correct geological map of the area.
This was done by walking around the area and taking necessary notes and
observations. It was then established that the study area consists dominantly
of Igneous rocks. The area will be highly profitable for the Construction
industry.
The importance of field work cannot be overemphasized in the study of
geology, as geologists are not made in the classroom.
5.2 RECOMMENDATION
From my findings in the course of this field work, I recommend that more
effort should be made into the proper organization of field work for the
students.
However, the assigned staff were wonderful, as this field work was a huge
success.

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 REFERENCES

C. Michael Hogan (2010): Geology Environmental Chemistry, Published by

Mining Academic Press, New York Pp 50

Diane H. Carlson, Charles C. Plummer and Lisa Hamersley (2011): Physical

Geology Earth Revealed, Published by Mc-Graw Hill, New York Pp 360-362.

S.K. Garg (2009): Physical and Engineering Geology, Published by Khanna

Publishers, India Pp 151-153.

Falconer, J.D. (1911): The Geology and Geography of Northern Nigeria, Published

by Macmillan, London Pp 295.

Bolton, T. (1989): Geological Maps, Their Solution and Interpretation, Published

by Cambridge University Press, Pp 144.

Alex Maltman (1990): Geological Maps: An Introduction, Published by Open

University Press, Buckingham, Pp 15-20.

https://www.onlinenigeria.com/niger-state/?blurb=330

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