Investigation of Phosphate Rock Resources and Agricultural Application Potential in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria

Phosphate rock deposits in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria, offer potential as a locally sourced agricultural fertiliser material that could reduce Nigeria's dependency on imported phosphate inputs. This study investigates the geological occurrence, quality, and direct application potential of Sokoto phosphate rock for use as a soil amendment in North West Nigeria. Geological mapping and representative sampling were conducted at the Dange-Shuni and Sokoto phosphate occurrences. Samples were characterised by total phosphorus content, citric acid solubility, fluorine content, and trace element profile. Field trials were established on experimental plots in two communities in Sokoto State, comparing crop yields under Sokoto phosphate rock application against conventional triple superphosphate and control treatments. Results indicate that the Sokoto phosphate rock has a total P2O5 content averaging 18 percent, with citric acid solubility of 42 percent, indicating moderate reactivity suitable for direct application on acidic soils. Field trial results show that sorghum yields under Sokoto phosphate rock treatment approach 82 percent of triple superphosphate yields at one-third the cost. The study recommends targeted prospecting to delineate economically mineable zones and a government-supported programme to supply partially acidulated Sokoto phosphate to smallholder farmers. Keywords: phosphate rock, Sokoto State, agricultural fertiliser, direct application, crop yield.