ANALYSIS OF AEROMAGNETIC DATA OF OLOIBIRI AND ITS ENVIRONS IN NIGER DELTA

ABSTRACT This study presents a detailed analysis of aeromagnetic data over Oloibiri and its surrounding areas in the Niger Delta, Nigeria, with the aim of delineating subsurface geological structures and evaluating their implications for hydrocarbon exploration. Oloibiri, historically recognized as the birthplace of Nigeria’s petroleum industry, remains a region of geophysical and economic significance. Aeromagnetic data were processed using standard filtering techniques, including reduction to the equator, upward continuation, and spectral analysis, to enhance anomaly interpretation. The results revealed distinct magnetic anomalies associated with basement topography and structural features such as faults and lineaments. Depth estimation techniques indicate varying sediment thickness across the study area, suggesting zones favorable for hydrocarbon accumulation. The findings highlight the structural complexity of the region and reinforce the importance of aeromagnetic methods as a cost-effective tool in subsurface investigation. This study contributes to ongoing efforts in resource exploration and provides insights that can guide future geophysical and geological assessments in the Niger Delta.