Shale samples were collected from a borehole that penetrated Awgu formation of the middle Benue trough, Nigeria. Source-rock potential was studied using Rock-Eval analysis and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The Rock-Eval pyrolysis data indicate that the samples contain a minimum amount of organic matter required to serve as a moderate source rock for hydrocarbons and classified the organic matter as type III kerogen. The distribution of n-alkane in the samples indicates mixed origin of organic matter. The pr/ph ratio ( 0.40-3.07) indicates organic matter deposition under anoxic to oxic environment. All maturity parameters computed indicate that the samples are within the oil generation window.