THE GEOLOGY OF KWADON-KANAWA AND ITS ENVIRONS PART OF SHEET 152NE GOMBE, NORTHEASTERN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT The geological study of Kanawa-Kwadon and its environs part of sheet 152NE Gombe was carriedout with the study aim to conduct detailed geological mapping, identify and delineate geological formations, measure lithostratigraphic sections, and create a comprehensive geological map of the area. The research employed a dual-phase data acquisition method, involving field geological mapping, sample collection, and laboratory analysis, including sedimentary logging. The study area exhibits a range of rock types with unique geochemical trends, analyzed using SiO₂ as a differentiation index. The Harker diagram shows rocks formed in varied environments, from high-energy riverine and coastal settings (e.g., quartz-rich sandstones) to calm marine conditions (e.g., limestones) and biologically active zones (e.g., phosphate-rich rocks). The AFM diagram identifies that the specimens are tholeiitic rocks, associated with rift or mid-ocean ridge settings, with some highly evolved rocks indicating late-stage volcanic activity. The TAS diagram further divides rocks into felsic, mafic, and intermediate types, reflecting diverse magmatic sources from evolved continental crust to primitive mantle environments. The Folk 1954 classification identifies that the specimens of the Sandstones are Quartz Arenite, Lithic Arenite and Subarkose. And Dunham classification identifies that the specimens of the Shale are Likely Wackestone and Packstone. Together, these analyses reveal the area's complex geological history, shaped by a mix of tectonic and environmental processes over time.