Pollution Levels and Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) on Air Pollution among Residents of Ebocha and Obrikom, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Air pollution is a major environmental health concern in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, where gas flaring and oil-related activities heighten community exposures. This study assessed both ambient air quality and the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of residents in Ebocha and Obrikom, Rivers State. Over seven weeks during the rainy season (April–May 2025), concentrations of PM₂.₅, PM₁₀, O₃, CO, NO₂, and SO₂ were measured using portable air quality monitors and compared with World Health Organization (WHO, 2021) guidelines. Mean concentrations were PM₂.₅: 8 µg/m³, PM₁₀: 25 µg/m³, O₃: 35 µg/m³, CO: 317 µg/m³, NO₂: 30 µg/m³, and SO₂: 5 µg/m³—all well within permissible limits and lower than values commonly reported in Nigerian urban centers. Alongside monitoring, a structured KAP survey was conducted among 187 respondents (98 in Ebocha and 89 in Obrikom). Awareness of air pollution was high (84%), and all respondents acknowledged health and environmental consequences. However, only 42% considered it a serious threat, and just 58% expressed willingness to act. Gender differences were evident: women reported higher daily exposure, while men were more likely to consider relocation or activism. These findings point to a gap between awareness and effective action, shaped by socioeconomic and cultural factors. Sustained year-round monitoring and community-based interventions are needed to reduce long-term risks in the Niger Delta.