Fault Patterns and Implications on Madagali Hills, Hawal Basement Complex N. E. Nigeria
Nsikak Edet Bassey
Department of Geology, Modibbo Adama University of Technology, PMB 2076, Yola, Nigeria
Jonathan Barka *
Department of Geology, Gombe State University, PMB 127, Gombe State, Nigeria
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Fault mapping on Madagali Hills area (Longitudes 13°36’E to 13°41.5’E and Latitude 10°51’N to 10°57.5’N) was done with the objective of producing a structural map of the area and to see the implications of the fault patterns. The area is polygenic, having experienced magmatism, metamorphism and structural deformations. Oldest mapped rocks are gneiss, granite gneiss and schist. These are intruded by Pan African granites. The area has experience both low and high grade metamorphism as proven by the presence of schist and gneisses. Minor intrusive occur as basic and acidic dykes with NE, NW, E-W, and N-S orientations and affect all major rocks. Rock shearing is closely associated with fault zones. Field evidence shows that several drainage channels are fault controlled. Fault intersections are common features. Would the faults serve as good locations for productive bore holes in this semi arid region? Would the intersections serve as avenues for mineralization? These are some issues this paper seeks to address beside the structural data presented.
Keywords: Basement complex, faulting, shear zones, lineaments, strain, groundwater