Geology, Petrography, Hydrogeology and Structural Analysis of Basawa and Its Environs, Part of Zaria Sheet 102 SW, Kaduna State, Northwestern Nigeria
This study presents the geology, petrography, hydrogeology, structural characteristics, and economic significance of Basawa and its environs within Zaria Sheet 102 SW, Kaduna State, Northwestern Nigeria. Detailed geological mapping at a scale of 1:25,000, complemented by petrographic analysis of representative rock samples, was undertaken to characterize the lithological units and reconstruct the geological history of the area. The area is predominantly underlain by Precambrian Basement Complex rocks consisting mainly of gneiss and granitic intrusions, with minor occurrences of quartz veins, laterite, and alluvial deposits. Field observations reveal extensive structural features including joints, veins, dykes, foliations, and ptygmatic folds. Petrographic studies indicate that the gneiss is composed predominantly of quartz, plagioclase, orthoclase, microcline, biotite, and muscovite, whereas the granites consist mainly of quartz, feldspar, biotite, and muscovite. Structural analysis indicates dominant N–S to NE–SW trends consistent with regional Pan-African tectonism. Field relationships and petrographic evidence suggest that the gneiss constitutes the oldest lithological unit and was subsequently intruded by granitic bodies during the Pan-African orogeny. Although no economically significant metallic mineralization was identified, the abundance of granitic and gneissic rocks, lateritic materials, and alluvial deposits provides substantial potential for construction materials, groundwater development, and agricultural activities. The study contributes to the understanding of the geology and tectonic evolution of the Nigerian Basement Complex in the Zaria region.