Abstract

Fine particulate matter PM_2.5 has attracted much attention both scientific and public, due to its effects on human health. This study used remotely sensed PM_2.5 to model the annual trends of PM_2.5 concentration across the cities of the Niger delta region of Nigeria. Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) PM_2.5 data for this study was acquired from remotely sensed satellite data from National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA’s) earth observing system data and information system from 2001 – 2005. Trend analysis was employed to model the trend of PM_2.5 concentration and  result showed that the annual mean PM_2.5 concentration from 2001-2015 across the cities of the Niger Delta varied with Akure having the highest concentration in 2005, Asaba 2009, Benin 2005, Calabar 2004 Owerri 2004, Port Harcourt 2004, Umuahia 2008, Uyo 2005 and Yenagoa 2004. This means that there is a wide variation in PM_2.5 concentration over the years across the cities and there is an increasing trend in PM_2.5 concentration across the region, and all the state capitals have annual mean values of PM_2.5 above the WHO guideline value of 10µg/m. PM_2.5 concentration is increasing with years especially as a result of the illegal refining activities, gas and oil pipeline bombing and gas flaring activities. This situation can lead to adverse health and environmental health effects on human beings with continuous exposure.

Key Words: PM_2.5, Modeling, Trend analysis, Niger delta

DOI: https://ejesm.org/doi/v10i9.2