ABSTRACT

This research assessed the Identification of Clay Deposits and its Suitability for
crop production in Kwali Area Council, F.C.T, Abuja. Data was sourced from
both primary and secondary sources, Field survey and soil sampling were carried
out using the quadrate approach. Each identified and delineated area four plots of
4m by 4m were established, after which soil samples were randomly collected
from the 0-20cm layer of the soil using a soil auger. The soil samples were
properly labeled and taken to the laboratory at Ages Science Laboratory, for
analysis following standard laboratory procedures, ANOVA was used to test for
the variations of the soil properties amongst the sampling plots. Two samples
were collected from each plots, making a total of 8 samples, these were mixed up
to form the composite after which one sample was taken from the composite
giving a total of 4 samples. All visible plant residues, stones, roots, and large
debris from the soil sample were removed using hand gloves . The result revealed
that the soil physical properties (porosity, silt, moisture contents and water
absorption) of the sampled clay soils does not exhibit significant variances at
p>0.05, and the soil chemical properties [calcium contents(1.8g/kg),
aluminum(28.87g/kg), silicon(55.55g/kg), magnesium(0.82g/kg),
sodium(0.05g/kg), potassium(0.46g/kg), and manganese(0.08g/kg)] of the sampled
clay soils does not exhibit significant variances at p>0.05 except the soil
pH(6.43g/kg). Most of the clay soils chemical and physical properties analyzed
have values that are suitable for crop farming as they conform with International
Standards for Soil Parameters.

It is therefore recommended that government should help farmers by providing

extension services and public enlightenment campaigns on the suitability of clay
soil in crop production.

INTRODUCTION

Clay is a natural material with fine grains that becomes flexible when mixed with
water (Shuaib-Babata et al., 2019). From a mineralogical perspective, clay is a
complex aluminosilicate compound with water molecules integrated into its

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structure (Aliyu et al., 2012). It serves as a fundamental component in the
production of refractory fireclay and casting molding sand, which form a cohesive,
moldable mass when dried (Amkpa & Nur, 2016).

In Nigeria, clay is a significant mineral deposit, with reserves estimated in the

billions of tons, spread across various states (Shuaib-Babata & Abdulrahaman,
2018). Despite this abundance, Nigeria continues to import large quantities of
refractory materials, negatively impacting the economy (Mathew & Owoeye,
2016; Etukudoh et al., 2016). Research has consistently shown the presence of
high-quality clay deposits throughout the country, with some requiring only minor
improvements for industrial use (Sanni et al., 2003; Abolarin et al., 2006; Shuaib-
Babata & Mudiare, 2017; Shuaib-Babata et al., 2016, 2018).

Several studies have mapped and recorded clay occurrences in Nigeria, ranging
from lateritic profiles to sedimentary strata and alluvial bodies (Emmanuel et al.,
2015; Nton & Elueze, 2005; Alege et al., 2014). The effective use of these local
resources is crucial for economic growth and job creation (Emmanuel et al., 2015).
However, this study specifically aims to identify and map industrial clay deposits
in the Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Nigeria’s abundant clay resources are underutilized, despite their potential

applications in various sectors such as construction, agriculture, and pottery
(Jimoh Olugbenga & Opeyemi, 2021). This underutilization is attributed to
inadequate mining and processing infrastructure, and a limited understanding of
the clay's properties (Oluwadare & Akinmusuru, 2017). Moreover, the absence of
standardized techniques for assessing clay deposits further complicates the
evaluation of their suitability for different purposes (Oluwadamilare, Adegoke &
Olorunfemi, 2020). While numerous studies have focused on the physiochemical
properties of soils in various regions of Nigeria (Osemenam et al., 2019; Garandi
et al., 2021; Paul et al., 2019; Senjobi, 2017; Martin et al., 2015; Muche et al.,
2015), research on the clay deposits in the Kwali Area Council has been limited.
Specifically, previous studies, such as that by Osemenam et al. (2019), did not
explore the agricultural potential of these deposits. This study seeks to fill this

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research gap by identifying and mapping industrial clay deposits in Kwali Area
Council, Abuja.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

This study aimed at identifying and mapping industrial clay deposits in Kwali
Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory with the view to evaluate both the
physical and chemical compositions of clay deposits in the study area. The
specific objectives of the study are to:

i) Investigate clay deposits in Kwali Area Council;

ii) To analyze the physiochemical properties (physical and chemical) of clay.

deposits in the study area;

iii) To determine the variation in the properties of clay deposits in the study
area; and

iv) Determine the suitability of clay deposits in the study area for crop farming.

Research Methodology

3.1 Research Design

The study utilized a Cross-Sectional Research Design to assess soil

physiochemical properties across different land uses at specific points in time.
This design was chosen to facilitate the collection of data from various sampling
points within the study area.

3.2 Reconnaissance Survey

A preliminary survey was conducted to gain a better understanding of the study

area. This initial survey was crucial for gathering direct information about the
physical and human aspects of the region, which informed the main research.

3.3 Sources of Data

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The study relied on both primary and secondary data sources.

3.3.1 Primary Source of Data: Data was collected through direct observation, GPS
coordinates, and photography. Soil samples were analyzed for properties such as
moisture content, bulk density, and chemical composition, including pH and levels
of various minerals (e.g., calcium, magnesium)

3.3.2 Secondary Source of Data: Secondary data was obtained from environmental
agencies, academic journals, and historical records like soil surveys and land-use
maps, providing additional context for the study.

3.4 Sampling Frame

Soil sampling was conducted using the quadrate method, with four plots (4m x
4m) established in each identified area. Soil samples were collected randomly
from the 0-20 cm layer using a soil auger.

3.5 Sampling Size/Procedure

A total of eight composite soil samples were collected from selected areas at a
depth of 0-30 cm. These samples were mixed to ensure they represented each
location.

3.6 Sample Treatment and Preparation

Collected soil samples were air-dried, sieved to remove debris, and homogenized.
These prepared samples were stored in airtight containers to prevent moisture
absorption and contamination before laboratory analysis.

3.7 Laboratory Analysis

The laboratory analysis included both physical and chemical tests:

3.7.1 Physical Properties: The particle size distribution was determined using
hydrometer analysis. Soil moisture content was measured using the gravimetric
method, while bulk density was calculated using the core method. The Proctor
Compaction Test and Munsell Soil Color Chart were also used.

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3.7.2 Chemical Properties: Soil pH, texture, and salinity were determined using
various methods, including pH meters and electrical conductivity. The organic
matter content was measured using the Walkley-Black method.

3.8 Method of Data Analysis

Data were analyzed at Ages Science Laboratory, using descriptive statistics and
one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to identify significant differences in soil
properties across the study site. Results were visualized using histograms and pie
charts, with significance tested at a 5% probability level (p ≤ 0.05).

DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSIONS

4.1 Soil Physiochemical Properties of Clay in the Study Area Table 4.1: Soil
Physical Properties of Clay
Soil Sample 1 Sample 2 Sample 3 Sample 4 pvalue
parameters
Value Mean Value Mean Value Mean ± Value Mean
± SD ± SD SD ± SD

Colour Dark gray - Dark gray - Dark gray Dark gray - -

BD g/gc3 2.20 0.8± 2.29 2.1± 1.87 0.2± 0.1 2.25 0.4± 0.29
0.3 0.1 1.1
Porosity 22.82 8.3± 18.54 10.2± 21.77 9.6± 1.1 21.04 9.7± 0.02
(%) 1.5 1.5 1.3
Silt g/kg 10.43 16.3± 12.20 27.0± 9.90 19.3± 10.50 15.2± 0.04
1.11 1.6 1.7 1.2
MC (%) 14.00 2.2± 15.10 7.2± 13.53 1.9± 1.4 14.30 0.8± 0.27
0.4 1.3 0.2
WA (%) 2.81 13.2± 3.73 44.1± 3.61 23.1± 2.92 9.2± 0.31
1.2 1.2 1.2 1.1
Source: Laboratory Report, 2023.

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NB: BD = Bulk Density, MC = Moisture Contents, WA = Water Absorption

Table 4.1 shows the physical properties of four (4) samples of clay soil in
examined in the study area. The table shows that the four (4) soil samples analyzed
are dark gray in color. Among the various clay soil samples, there was a significant
difference in the bulk density concentration of the clay soils at (P 0.05) as against
0.29 p-value obtained. Sample 2 shows the highest bulk density of 2.29g/gc 3 while
sample 3 shows the least bulk density of 1.87g/gc 3. For apparent porosity, there is
no significant difference in the porosity of the four (4) clay soil samples at (P 0.05)
as against 0.02 p-value obtained. Sample 1 shows the highest apparent porosity of
22.82% while sample 2 shows the least apparent porosity of 18.54%. For silt, there
is no significant difference in the concentration of silt of the four (4) clay soil
samples at (P 0.05) as against 0.04 p-value obtained. Sample 2 shows the highest
silt concentration of 12.20g/kg while sample 3 shows the least silt concentration of
9.90k/kg. For moisture content, there is a significant difference in the moisture
content of the four (4) clay soil samples at (P 0.05) as against 0.27 pvalue
obtained. Sample 2 shows the highest moisture content of 15.10% while sample 3
shows the least moisture content of 13.53%. For water absorption, there is a
significant difference in the water absorption of the four (4) clay soil samples at (P
0.05) as against 0.031 p-value obtained. Sample 2 shows the highest water
absorption of 3.73% while sample 1 shows the least water absorption of 2.81%.
This finding is consistent with study findings published by Wakene and Heluf in
2016, who claimed that soil compaction, silt, moisture content and organic matter
degradation are to blame for the greatest bulk density in abandoned or open land.

4.2 Soil Chemical Properties of Clay in the Study Area Table 4.2 Soil Chemical
Properties of Clay
Soil Sample 1 Sample 2 Sample 3 Sample 4 pvalue
parameters
Values Mean ± Values Mean ± Values Mean ± SD Values Mean
SD SD ± SD

pH 6.1 6.1± 1.2 7.2 7.0± 1.3 6.0 5.8± 1.3 6.4 5.5± 0.03
1.3
Ca (g/kg) 0.7 0.11 ± 2.1 1.10 ± 1.90 0.70 ± 0.01 2.30 1.22 ± 0.04
0.01 0.01 0.01
Al (g/kg) 30.50 25.2± 26.77 22.1± 2.2 32.10 26.2± 1.7 26.10 20.4± 0.01
1.3 1.1

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Si (g/kg) 52.34 28.3± 58.42 27.2± 1.5 54.21 24.6± 1.1 57.21 25.7± 0.04
1.5 1.3
Mg (g/kg) 0.011 16.3± 0.040 2.0± 1.6 3.10 1.3± 1.7 0.12 1.2± 0.01
1.11 1.2
Na (g/kg) 0.020 2.2± 0.4 0.030 0.2± 0.3 0.027 1.9± 1.4 0.14 0.8± 0.03
0.2
K (g/kg) 0.013 1.2± 0.2 0.011 0.1± 0.2 0.08 1.04 ± 0.02 1.74 0.12± 0.01
0.6
Mn (g/kg) 0.021 13.2± 0.06 44.1± 1.2 0.16 23.1± 1.2 0.07 9.2± 0.01
1.2 1.1
Source: Laboratory Report, 2023.

NB: pH = Soil Acidity or Alkalinity, Ca = Calcium, Al = Aluminum, Si =

Silicon, Mg = Magnesium, Na = Sodium, K = Potassium, Mn = Manganese.

The study examined the chemical properties of four clay soil samples, focusing on
several key parameters: pH, calcium (Ca), aluminum (Al), silicon, magnesium
(Mg), sodium (Na), potassium (K), and manganese (Mn). The results indicated no
significant differences among the samples for any of these chemical properties at a
significance level of P < 0.05.

pH Levels: The pH values ranged from 6.0 to 7.2, with Sample 2 having the
highest pH (7.2) and Sample 3 the lowest (6.0). The slight acidity of the soils
might be due to strong base leaching from high tropical rainfall, along with the
presence of iron and aluminum ions, which can lower soil pH.

Calcium (Ca): Calcium content varied between 0.7 g/kg and 2.30 g/kg, with
Sample 4 showing the highest calcium concentration and Sample 1 the lowest.

Aluminum (Al): Aluminum concentration ranged from 26.10 g/kg to 30.50 g/kg,
with Sample 1 containing the highest aluminum levels and Sample 4 the lowest.

Silicon: Silicon content ranged from 52.34% to 58.42%, with Sample 2 having the
highest and Sample 1 the lowest concentrations.

Magnesium (Mg): Magnesium levels varied from 0.011 g/kg to 3.1 g/kg, with
Sample 3 having the highest and Sample 1 the lowest levels.

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Sodium (Na): Sodium content ranged from 0.020 g/kg to 0.14 g/kg, with Sample 4
showing the highest and Sample 1 the lowest sodium concentrations.

Potassium (K): Potassium levels varied from 0.011 g/kg to 1.74 g/kg, with Sample
4 containing the highest potassium and Sample 2 the lowest.

Manganese (Mn): Manganese content ranged from 0.021 g/kg to 0.16 g/kg, with
Sample 3 having the highest and Sample 1 the lowest manganese levels.

The overall findings suggest that the clay soils in the study area are slightly acidic,
potentially due to the tropical environment and the presence of iron and aluminum
ions. The study also referenced previous research, highlighting the unique
properties of clay soils, such as high water-holding capacity and plasticity, which
contribute to soil fertility, nutrient retention, and moisture availability. However,
these soils may also be prone to shrinkage and swelling cycles, which could affect
foundation stability.4.3 Variations in Physical Properties of Clay Soils in the Study
Area

Table 4.3: Mean Variation of Soil Physical Properties of Clay Soils

Samples BD g/gc3 Porosity Silt g/kg MC g/kg WA g/kg p-
% Value
Sample 1 1.03 0.12 2.40 1.81 1.11 0.01
Sample 2 0.62 2.10 1.5 0.70 0.12 0.04
Sample 3 1.01 0.31 1.70 0.91 2.20 0.02
Sample 4 1.14 1.40 0.31 0.21 1.50 0.04
Mean ± SE 0.63 2.20 1.20 0.01 0.71 -
Source: SPSS Output, 2023.

NB: BD = Bulk Density, MC = Moisture Contents, WA = Water Absorption

The results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) for physical clay soils parameters
in table 4.3 indicates no significant statistical variation among the various clay
soils samples at p>0.05. The table, however, revealed that the bulk density,
porosity, silt, moisture contents and water absorption of the sampled clay soils
does not exhibit significant variances at p>0.05.
4.4 Variations in Chemical Properties of Clay Soils in the Study Area

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Table 4.4: Mean Variation of Soil Chemical Properties of Clay Soils
Samples pH Ca g/kg Al Si g/kg Mg g/kg Na g/kg K g/kg Mn p-value
g/kg g/kg
Sample 1 0.01 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.01 0.12 0.11
Sample 2 0.02 1.6 2.9 1.2 0.8 0.2 1.3 0.22 0.41
Sample 3 0.01 0.2 0.1 1.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.01 0.21
Sample 4 0.03 1.0 0.5 0.2 0.4 1.2 1.1 1.20 0.25
Mean ± SE 1.04 1.40 0.4 1.2 0.03 0.3 1.0 0.10 -
Source: Compiled SPSS Output, 2023.

NB: pH = Soil Acidity or Alkalinity, Ca = Calcium, Al = Aluminum, Si =

Silicon, Mg = Magnesium, Na = Sodium, K = Potassium, Mn = Manganese.

The results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) for chemical clay soils
parameters in table 4.4 indicates no significant statistical variation among the
various clay soils samples at p>0.05. The table, however, revealed that the calcium
contents, aluminum, silicon, magnesium, sodium, potassium and manganese of the
sampled clay soils does not exhibit significant variances at p>0.05 except the soil
pH.
4.5 Suitability of Clay Deposits in the Study Area for Crop Farming

60 55.55

50

40
28.87
30

20
6.43
10 1.8 0.82 0.05 0.46 0.08
0
pH Ca (g/kg) Al (g/kg) Si (g/kg) Mg (g/kg) Na (g/kg) K (g/kg) Mn (g/kg)

Average Sample Values

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Figure 4.1 shows the graphical representation of the chemical properties of four (4)
sampled clay soils in the determination of suitability of clay deposits for crop
farming in the study area. The figure shows that most of the clay soils chemical
properties analyzed have values that are suitable for crop farming as they conforms
with the International standards for soil parameters.

The recommended soil pH typically ranges from 6.0 to 7.5, fostering ideal
conditions for diverse crops (FAO, 2006). This analysis confirm that the soil pH of
the study area is 6.43, which is within the stipulated range, therefore shows that the
clay deposit in the study is suitable for crop farming. Adequate calcium levels,
crucial for plant development, should fall within the range of 0.8-2.0 (Brady and
Weil, 2008). Silicon concentrations should fall within the range of 20.0/kg to
60.0g/kg prevent binding of nutrient elements in the soil (Van Damme S.,
2010).Conversely, aluminum concentrations should be kept below 30.0/kg to
prevent toxicity (Alloway, 2008). Potassium levels between 0.15-0.5g/kg are
advised for optimal growth and enzyme activation (Marschner, 2012). From the
analysis of this study, the potassium level was 0.46g/kg which makes it very
suitable for optimal crop growth. Magnesium concentrations should fall within the
range of 0.5/kg to 1.0 to prevent hindrance In the uptake of potassium(Alloway,
2008). Manganese concentrations should be kept below 1.0/kg to prevent
phytotoxicity (Yamaji N., 2016) Sodium concentrations are recommended to stay
below 0.05 to avoid adverse effects on soil structure and plant health (FAO, 2006).
The Sodium concentration from the analysis of this study was 0.05g/kg, which
implies that, the clay deposit in the study area is suitable for crop farming.

References

1. Aliyu et al., 2012 A comparative study on the refractory properties of selected

clays in north central nigeria
2. Amkpa and Nur, 2016 Assessment of Physico-Mechanical Properties of Clay
Deposits in Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State Nigeria
3. Emmanuel, Tope, Gideon and Sunday (2015) investigated the Compositional
Characteristics and Industrial Assessment of the Cretaceous Clay Deposits
within Northern Anambra Basin, Nigeria.
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4. Martin, E.O., Joseph, U.C., Moses O.E. (2015). The Effects of Land Use on
Soil Physiochemical Properties in Ughelli and its Environs. Delta State.
Nigeria. International Journal of Research and Review. Vol.2; Issue: I l;
November 2015.
5. Osemenam, R.A., Afeni, T.B., Alfred, V.A. and Onwualu-John, J.N. (2019).
Evaluation of some Ceramic Properties of Gadabiu Clay Deposit (Kwali Area
Council, Abuja, Nigeria). Mining of Mineral Deposits, Volume 13 (2019), Issue
I , pp. 9-15.
6. Shuaib-Babata and Mudiare (2017) worked on the Characterization and
Evaluation of the Refractory Properties of Local Clay Deposits in Kwara State,
Nigeria.
7. Shuaib-Babata and Abdulrahaman, 2018 Evaluation of Chemical and Physico-
Mechanical Properties of some Nigeria Natural Clays Samples

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