Assessment of Coal Resource Potential and Development Prospects in Gombe State, North East Nigeria

Gombe State in North East Nigeria contains underexplored coal deposits within the Gongola Basin that represent a significant but largely unutilised energy resource. This study assesses the coal resource potential and prospects for commercial development in Gombe State. A literature synthesis of existing geological survey data was complemented by a field investigation involving geological mapping, borehole log interpretation, and sampling of coal seam outcrops across three localities. Proximate and ultimate analysis was conducted on collected samples to determine calorific value, moisture, ash, volatile matter, and fixed carbon content. Petrographic analysis was also performed to classify coal rank. Results indicate that Gombe coal is predominantly sub-bituminous, with calorific values ranging between 18 and 24 megajoules per kilogram, suitable for power generation and brick manufacturing applications. Seam thicknesses of 0.8 to 2.5 metres were documented, suggesting economically mineable resources at moderate depths. The study identifies infrastructure deficit, particularly road networks and rail connectivity, as the primary constraint to exploitation. Recommendations include strategic government investment in access infrastructure, targeted promotion to independent power producers, and coal-to-energy pilot project development. This research updates resource documentation for Gombe State and supports the Federal Government's agenda to diversify Nigeria's energy mix through domestic coal utilisation. Keywords: coal resources, Gombe State, Gongola Basin, energy, sub-bituminous coal.