Assessment of Atmospheric Pollutants (NO₂, CO, and Aerosols) in Kano State, Northwestern Nigeria, from 2019 - 2023

Abstract

Air pollution is a serious environmental concern, with evidence showing that both short and long-term exposure to gaseous pollutants negatively impacts the environment and human health. Kano State, one of Nigeria’s largest industrial hubs, has experienced rapid population growth, deforestation, and industrialization, all of which have the potential to impact air quality. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate air quality in Kano State, Northwestern Nigeria, by analyzing atmospheric pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and aerosols from 2019 - 2023. The study utilizes secondary data accessed through Google Earth Engine, primarily sourced from the Sentinel-5 Precursor (S5P) satellite equipped with the Tropospheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI). Results indicate annual mean NO₂ concentrations of 0.0000535 mol/m² (2019), 0.0000539 mol/m² (2021), and 0.0000592 mol/m² (2023). The mean CO concentrations for these years were 0.0373 mol/m², 0.0369 mol/m², and 0.0364 mol/m², respectively, while mean aerosol concentrations were -0.364, -0.060, and 0.596. Statistical analysis revealed no significant changes (p > 0.05) in NO₂ and CO levels over the study period, whereas aerosol concentrations increased significantly (p < 0.001) from 2019 - 2023. These findings underscore the need for continuous air quality monitoring in Kano State to track pollutant trends and guide regulatory actions aimed at mitigating health and environmental impact.