CF AMAECHI

Air pollution is a growing concern in Nigeria, with significant implications for public health and the environment. This study provides a comparative assessment of air quality in Kano and Bayelsa states from 2019 to 2024 using Sentinel-5P satellite data. The study focuses on key pollutants, including carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and aerosols, to evaluate spatial and temporal variations in air quality between the most populated (Kano) and least populated (Bayelsa) states in Nigeria. The research utilizes remote sensing techniques, Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, and statistical methods to analyze pollutant concentrations and identify trends over the study period. Results indicate that air pollution levels in Kano are primarily influenced by vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and seasonal dust storms, leading to high NO₂ and aerosol concentrations. In contrast, Bayelsa's air quality is significantly impacted by gas flaring and petroleum-related activities, with elevated CO levels being a major concern. Statistical analysis reveals notable differences in pollutant concentrations between the two states, showing that Kano state consistently has higher Aerosol and NO2 levels than Bayelsa state, and Bayelsa state consistently has higher
CO concentrations than Kano state. These results emphasize the role of population density and industrialization in shaping air quality patterns. The study also highlights the influence of population on air pollution, showing that while high population density in Kano contributes to increased emissions, Bayelsa's lower population does not necessarily translate to better air quality due to intensive industrial activities. These findings emphasize the need for targeted air quality management strategies tailored to the unique pollution sources in each state.
Policies should focus on enhancing emission regulations for industries in Bayelsa and implementing stricter vehicular emission controls in Kano. Expanding air quality monitoring infrastructure and promoting clean energy alternatives are also recommended to mitigate pollution impacts. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of regional air quality variations in Nigeria, providing valuable insights for policymakers and environmental health practitioners.