NITROGEN DIOXIDE

Air pollution remains a critical environmental and public health challenge in rapidly urbanizing regions. This study employs Sentinel-5P satellite data and Google Earth Engine (GEE) to analyze the spatial and temporal trends of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and aerosols in Lokoja, Nigeria, from 2019 to 2024. As a major transit hub, Lokoja experiences significant pollution from vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and biomass burning, necessitating comprehensive monitoring. Results reveal dynamic fluctuations in pollutant concentrations, with CO levels peaking in 2024 due to increased fossil fuel combustion, while NO₂ concentrations spiked in 2021 before a gradual decline, suggesting the influence of regulatory interventions and shifts in energy consumption. Aerosol trends indicate seasonal variations, with pronounced increases post-2021 linked to dry-season biomass burning and industrial expansion. A paired sample t-test confirmed statistically significant year-to-year differences in pollutant levels, reinforcing the role of economic, policy, and environmental factors in air quality dynamics. This study underscores the importance of integrating satellite- based remote sensing with ground validation for enhanced air quality assessments. Findings provide critical insights for policymakers, advocating for emission control strategies, sustainable urban planning, and targeted mitigation efforts to safeguard public health and environmental sustainability in emerging urban centers.