Assessment of Iron Ore Quality and Processing Potential at Itakpe Deposit, Kogi State, North Central Nigeria

The Itakpe iron ore deposit in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria, is one of Africa's significant iron ore reserves, yet optimisation of its processing remains an ongoing technical challenge. This study assesses the mineralogical quality and beneficiation potential of iron ore from the Itakpe deposit using updated laboratory and analytical methods. Representative ore samples were collected from three mining benches and subjected to petrographic thin section analysis, X-ray diffraction, and Davis tube magnetic separation tests. Iron content, silica, and deleterious element profiles were quantified and bench-scale magnetic separation and flotation experiments were performed to establish optimum processing parameters. Results indicate that the Itakpe ore has an average iron content of 36 percent in run-of-mine form, requiring beneficiation to achieve the 65 percent concentrate grade demanded by the Ajaokuta Steel Complex. Wet low-intensity magnetic separation achieved concentrate grades of up to 63 percent at recovery rates of 78 percent under optimum conditions. The study identifies fine-grained magnetite intergrowths with silicate gangue as the primary processing challenge, necessitating fine grinding prior to separation. These findings support the ongoing efforts of the National Iron Ore Mining Company to improve plant performance and profitability. This research also provides benchmark data for comparative studies of Nigerian iron ore deposits. Keywords: iron ore, Itakpe, beneficiation, magnetic separation, Kogi State.