Mapping of Solid Mineral Deposits Using Remote Sensing Techniques in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria

Kogi State in North Central Nigeria is endowed with diverse solid mineral resources including iron ore, limestone, and coal. However, comprehensive geological mapping of these deposits remains limited, constraining investment and sustainable exploitation. This study applies remote sensing techniques to identify and map solid mineral deposits across selected districts in Kogi State. Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) and Sentinel-2 multispectral imagery were processed using band ratio analysis, principal component analysis, and supervised classification algorithms in a geographic information system environment. Field verification traverses were conducted to validate spectral signatures identified as mineralisation zones. Results delineate anomalous zones consistent with iron ore and limestone formations in the Lokoja and Itobe areas. The integration of Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) digital elevation data further reveals structural lineaments that may guide hydrothermal mineral concentration. This low-cost, scalable approach demonstrates significant potential for mineral reconnaissance in areas with limited drilling data. The study recommends follow-up geophysical surveys and exploratory drilling at priority target zones identified. It also provides a replicable methodology for other Nigerian states seeking to inventory their mineral resource endowments under the Federal Government's Solid Minerals Development agenda. Keywords: remote sensing, mineral mapping, Kogi State, Landsat 8, solid minerals.