AUTHOR=Magawata U. Z. , Olasunkanmi N. K. , Egbeyale G. B. , Saleh A. TITLE=Structure and mineralization potential of the southwestern part of Sokoto Basin in Nigeria JOURNAL=Frontiers in Earth Science VOLUME=Volume 13 - 2025 YEAR=2025 URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/earth-science/articles/10.3389/feart.2025.1500162 DOI=10.3389/feart.2025.1500162 ISSN=2296-6463 ABSTRACT=This study investigates the lithological boundaries, structural features, and mineralization potential in the southwestern part of the Sokoto Basin, Nigeria, using an integrated approach involving high-resolution aeromagnetic, radiometric, and Landsat 8 multispectral data. The aeromagnetic data were enhanced using tilt derivative, analytical signal, and first vertical derivative filters to delineate subsurface lithological units and structural trends. Depth-to-source estimations were carried out using Euler deconvolution and Source Parameter Imaging (SPI), while radiometric data were analyzed to map potassium concentrations indicative of hydrothermal alteration zones. Landsat 8 imagery supported lithological and structural mapping through band ratios and false-color composites. The results revealed three major magnetic zones, high (53.3–120.2 nT), intermediate (27.0–53.2 nT), and low (-50.8–22.3 nT) corresponding to different rock units. Depth models highlighted complex basement topography with favorable zones for subsurface mineralization. Structural interpretation identified faults and NE-SE trending fractures that control fluid flow. Potassium anomaly zones were associated with metamorphosed rocks such as amphibolites and quartz mica schists, indicating gold-related hydrothermal alteration aligned with major structural features. The integration of geophysical and remote sensing methods provides a more detailed and spatially extensive understanding of the subsurface geology compared to traditional field-based mapping, offering valuable insights for future mineral exploration and a refined geological interpretation of the Sokoto Basin.