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Aiyetoro Gbede, nestled within Kogi State, Nigeria, occupies a geographically significant position in the North Central region. Located approximately at 7.9833° latitude and 6.0000° longitude, the town sits on a gently undulating terrain, characteristic of the Guinea Savanna belt. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive farmlands dedicated to crops like cassava, maize, and yam, interspersed with scattered woodlands and patches of secondary forest. Elevation is relatively low, averaging around 60-80 meters above sea level, which influences local air circulation patterns. While Aiyetoro Gbede itself is a relatively small settlement with a population of around 15,000, it lies within a broader rural-urban gradient, transitioning from agricultural dominance towards the larger urban centers of Kogi State. The town’s proximity to the Kogi River, though not directly adjacent, provides a degree of regional moisture and influences local microclimates. There are no major industrial zones immediately surrounding Aiyetoro Gbede; however, agricultural practices, particularly burning of crop residue after harvest, represent a localized source of particulate matter. The town’s location within the savanna biome means it experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, impacting ventilation and pollutant dispersion. The relatively flat topography and limited natural barriers can contribute to the stagnation of pollutants during certain periods, particularly during the dry season when wind speeds are lower. The surrounding agricultural land, while vital for the local economy, also presents a recurring challenge to air quality due to seasonal burning.

Aiyetoro Gbede’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical climate. The wet season, typically spanning from April to October, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality due to atmospheric cleansing. Frequent rainfall washes away particulate matter, and increased vegetation growth absorbs some pollutants. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to flooding, which can temporarily release pollutants from saturated soils. The dry season, from November to March, presents a more challenging scenario. Lower rainfall, reduced vegetation activity, and decreased humidity contribute to a build-up of pollutants. Temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, are more common during this period, hindering vertical mixing and trapping pollutants near the ground. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and residue disposal, significantly exacerbates air quality issues during the dry season, releasing substantial amounts of smoke and particulate matter. Fog, which can form during cooler mornings in the dry season, further restricts air movement and concentrates pollutants. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season months of June to September. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly in the months of January and February when agricultural burning is most prevalent. Minimizing exposure to smoke and seeking shelter indoors during periods of heavy burning are recommended.