Characterisation of Limestone Deposits for Cement Production in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria

Sokoto State in North West Nigeria holds one of the largest limestone reserves in the country, yet the full industrial potential of these deposits has not been systematically characterised in recent studies. This study undertakes a comprehensive mineralogical and geochemical characterisation of limestone deposits in the Sokoto Sedimentary Basin to assess their suitability for cement manufacturing. Rock core samples and channel samples were collected from four quarry exposures and subjected to X-ray fluorescence analysis, X-ray diffraction, and loss on ignition tests. Key parameters evaluated include calcium carbonate content, magnesium oxide levels, silica, alumina, and iron oxide concentrations. Results indicate that the Sokoto limestone averages 87 percent calcium carbonate content with low magnesium oxide, meeting the compositional specifications for Portland cement production outlined by the Nigerian Industrial Standards. Minor variations in silica content between sample locations suggest a need for selective mining strategies to maintain raw feed quality. This study provides updated data supporting investment decisions for cement manufacturers and offers technical guidance for quarry planning. It also recommends that the Sokoto State Government pursue mineral development partnerships to stimulate local industrialisation. The findings advance current knowledge on Nigerian industrial minerals and provide a replicable characterisation framework. Keywords: limestone characterisation, cement production, Sokoto State, geochemistry, industrial minerals.