Preliminary Geo-Statistical And Geo-Spatial Analysis Of Atmospheric Pollutants In Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria

Abstract

A comprehensive geo-statistical and geo-spatial assessment of PM_2.5, PM₁₀, CO₂, CO, NO₂, VOCs and meteorological conditions was conducted during the wet and dry seasons, across major land-use categories in Abuja,  Nigeria, with spatial surfaces and clusters modelled to identify pollutant hotspots across 21 sampling locations. Data was obtained through field sampling, satellite retrievals, meteorological datasets, and land-use/land-cover mapping.  Results revealed PM_2.5, PM₁₀ pollutants exhibited strong seasonal contrasts, with significantly higher dry-season levels in Galadimawa, Guzape and Kukwaba in high-traffic corridors, construction zones, and densely populated districts.   Correlation analyses showed a strong positive association (71.6%) between dry and wet season for PM₁₀ and PM_2.5, while climate data exhibited a weaker but significant positive correlation (43.6%). ANOVA results further established significant variability between and within seasonal groups indicating that air quality structured pollutant dispersion patterns are influenced by land-use intensity and meteorological conditions. The study demonstrates the deployment of geo-statistical modelling for evidence-based air-quality management in some parts of Abuja, highlighting seasonal differences and the need for continuous monitoring, data-driven urban planning, strengthened regulatory enforcement, and targeted mitigation measures to safeguard public health and promote sustainable urban air quality management.