Terrigenous Inputs, Redox Shifts, and REE Partitioning in Shankodi–Jangwa Coal, Middle Benue Trough, Nigeria: Implications for Green Energy Mineral Prospecting

This study investigated the concentration, distribution, and modes of occurrences of rareearthelements in coal from the Middle Benue Trough, northcentral Nigeria. This basin compriseonecoal bearing Formation i.e. Awgu Formation. Using inductively coupled plasmamassspectrometry (ICP-MS), we analysed 28 coal samples from the Awgu Formation. Resultsindicated that the total REE concentrations (̩REE) were similar to REE-enriched shales, runningas high as 110.01 ppm. The distribution patterns show LREE enrichment (LREE/HREE=2.78–9.41) with positive Eu anomalies and suboxic Ce/Ce* signatures, suggesting terrigenous input and redox shifts during deposition. Low LREE/HREE ratios and negative Ce anomalies implyarobust organic connection of REEs and little oxidative breakdown. These results identifytheREE signature as B-type, suggesting stable provenance with no diagenetic change. The findingsalso highlight intricate depositional patterns in the Turonian–Santonian phase of the BenueTrough, hence stressing the impact of volcanic ash and hinterland weathering. Throughthecombination of trace element geochemistry and stratigraphic context, this study of ers significant new information on the modes of occurrence and extraction potential of REEs in Nigeriancoals. In addition to supporting the environmental viability of coal-based REE extractioninsub-Saharan Africa, the implications extend beyond energy transition plans, positioning Nigeriaasastakeholder in the geopolitics of essential minerals.