Source Rock Potential and Structural Traps Signature in Outcropping Imo Formation, Niger Delta Basin: Structural Geometry and Petroleum Migration Pathway

Detailed palynofacies source rock potential model, structural trap signatures intertwined with lateral facies changes in petroleum system synthesis of the outcropping Imo Formation of the Niger Delta Basin, unravelled the palynofacies origin and fracture networks of clastic sediments. The research exposé modelled the structural trap design, hydrocarbon potential in addition to the petroleum migration pathway in the petroleum reserves and hydrocarbon generation prospects estimation of the formation. Palynological acid maceration techniques of using hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids for removal of calcite and silicates were perfected on the 33 sampled mudrock facies obtained from sedimentary rock outcrop studies. Palynofacies elements modelled kerogen hydrocarbon index essentially indicated thermally mature Type II–III kerogen, triggered by oil‐ and gas‐prone particulate organic matter substances. The source rock and temperature mechanics in the oil and gas window interplay substantiate Kerogen Type III (gas‐prone) and Kerogen Type II (oil‐prone) as products of essential palynofacies elements. The structural hydrocarbon entrapment design of the outcropping Imo Formation consists of hangingwall closures, footwall closures, shale cracks, infilled and open joint key structural trapping style in faulted and unfaulted sandstone units. Primary and secondary petroleum migration pathways in sandstone pores and fracture arrays are the pivotal mechanisms within the formation of petroleum accumulations and the reservoir quality of the formation. The oil and gas reserves in the structural style of the regional fault array linked the petroleum system architecture interplay for hydrocarbon formation and structural traps within the Niger Delta Basin. The interaction of complex structural fault systems, lateral facies variations and source rock potential controls hydrocarbon yields and fluid migration pathways in the Niger Delta Basin for effective exploration and drilling campaign in the outcropping Imo Formation petroleum plays.