ASSESSMENT OF AIRBORNE PARTICULATE MATTERS AND OTHER POLLUTANTS AND THEIR HEALTH IMPACTS IN BUKURU METROPOLIS, JOS, PLATEAU STATE

ABSTRACT Air pollution, particularly particulate matter (PM) and associated pollutants like carbon dioxide and nitrogen gases, poses a significant and growing threat to public health in rapidly urbanizing regions like Nigeria. Despite increasing concerns, comprehensive studies on airborne pollutant levels and their health impacts in specific urban areas, such as Bukuru in Jos South Local Government Area, Plateau State, remain limited. This study aimed to address this critical knowledge gap by assessing the levels of airborne particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and CO2, CO and SO2 pollutants in Bukuru, identifying their major sources and contributing factors, and examining their relationship with respiratory health problems within the community. Field measurements were conducted at multiple representative five points within Kugiya Market, Bukuru. Calibrated instruments including the AEROCET 531S particle counter/mass monitor for PM (PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM7, PM10, TSP) and the ALTAIR 5X Multi-Gas Detector for gaseous pollutants (CO, CO2, NO2, etc.) were used. Sampling procedures were adhered to ensure data reliability. The results indicated that Kugiya Market in Bukuru experiences hazardous air pollution, with PM2.5 (38.6 µg/m³), CO (54.6 ppm), and SO2 (0.1 ppm) significantly exceeding WHO guidelines (15 µg/m³, 8.7 ppm, and 0.015 ppm, respectively) and Nigerian NAAQS (50 µg/m³, 10 ppm, and 0.01 ppm). These exceedances pose severe health risks. PM2.5 at 38.6 µg/m³ (2.6×WHO limit) drives chronic respiratory diseases (e.g., COPD, lung cancer) and cardiovascular mortality. CO at 54.6 ppm (5× WHO limit) causes acute neurotoxicity (headaches, cognitive impairment) and long-term cardiovascular damage. By providing localized data on pollution levels and associated health risks, this research offers vital evidence to inform policymakers, public health officials, and environmental agencies. The insights gained are essential for developing targeted interventions, effective mitigation strategies, and evidence-based policies to improve air quality and safeguard public health in Bukuru and similar urban environments across Nigeria facing comparable challenges