Air Quality Parameters and Human Health Risk Assessment in Nigeria

Abstract

One of the challenges in assessing air quality parameters in Nigeria is the lack of comprehensive data due to limited monitoring stations across the country. Seven sampling stations (Lagos, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Makurdi, Kano, Maiduguri and Abuja) were chosen across the six geographical zones in Nigeria to monitor five parameters (PM, CO, NO2, SO2, and O3) for ninety days consecutively, using remote sensing techniques. The results obtained shows that the general pattern of these pollutants in ascending order is: Port Harcourt < Maiduguri < Makurdi < Lagos < Enugu < Abuja < Kano. The low values of NO2 (6.76 mg/m3) and SO2 (1.77 mg/m3) indicates that the accumulation of potential acid-forming particles known as acid rain is highly limited in Nigeria. The high values of particulates, PM10 (85.0 mg/m3) and PM2.5 (50.2 mg/m3) are beyond the standards and therefore, can accumulate in the lungs, interfering with their ability to exchange gases. The effects of these pollutants are crucial for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to develop effective strategies that minimize air pollution and safeguard public health. Hence, we recommend public awareness campaigns, green transportation initiatives, and public health interventions as essential for sustainable air quality management.