Geological and Structural Characterization of the Zaranda Younger Granite Ring Complex, Northeastern Nigeria

Abstract

The Zaranda Younger Granite forms part of the Nigerian Younger Granite Province and represents a prominent Mesozoic anorogenic intrusion. This study integrates field geological mapping, structural diagnosis, and aeromagnetic data interpretation to unravel the lithological assemblages, structural features, and tectono-magmatic evolution of the complex. Field mapping reveals that migmatite constitutes about 75% of the area, intruded by granodiorite, pegmatite, biotite granite, rhyolite, and quartz veins. Aeromagnetic data indicate ENE-WSW and E-W structural trends, reflecting multiple tectonic episodes that controlled magmatism and mineralization with implications for tin-tantalum-niobium-monazite mineralization. The findings demonstrate that the Zaranda complex is structurally controlled, magmatically diverse and economically significant, contributing to a broader understanding of the Nigerian Younger Granites and their metallogenic potential.