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Okene is a significant urban centre in Nigeria's Kogi State, strategically positioned at coordinates 7.5619°N, 6.2411°E within the central region of the country. The city lies approximately 300 kilometres southwest of Abuja, Nigeria's capital, and about 250 kilometres north of Lagos, placing it at a transitional point between Nigeria's northern and southern zones. Situated at an elevation of roughly 400 metres above sea level, Okene rests within the undulating terrain of the Nigerian Middle Belt, characterised by gentle hills and valleys that influence local air circulation patterns. The city is not directly adjacent to major water bodies, with the nearest significant river being the Niger River approximately 50 kilometres to the west, though smaller seasonal streams traverse the area. Okene's urban character reflects its role as a commercial and administrative hub for the Ebira people, with a population density creating typical urban pollution sources including vehicle emissions, generator use, and domestic biomass burning. The surrounding landscape transitions from urban development to agricultural zones where subsistence farming predominates, creating occasional agricultural burning episodes that can affect air quality. Okene's location within Nigeria's central region means it experiences influences from both the drier Harmattan winds from the Sahara to the north and the more humid air masses from the Gulf of Guinea to the south, creating complex air quality dynamics. The city's position along major transportation routes, including the Abuja-Lokoja highway, contributes to vehicular pollution, while its urban-rural gradient means cleaner air can be found in surrounding villages compared to the city centre where pollution tends to concentrate in built-up areas with limited green spaces.

Okene experiences distinct seasonal variations in air quality driven by Nigeria's tropical climate with wet and dry seasons. During the dry season from November to March, air pollution typically peaks due to several converging factors. The Harmattan wind from the Sahara Desert brings dust-laden air that significantly reduces visibility and increases particulate matter concentrations, with December and January often experiencing the worst conditions. Temperature inversions are common during this period, trapping pollutants near the surface, especially during calm nights and early mornings. Sensitive groups including children, elderly residents, and those with respiratory conditions should limit outdoor activities during Harmattan episodes and consider wearing protective masks. The wet season from April to October generally brings improved air quality as rainfall helps cleanse the atmosphere of particulate matter. June through August typically offers the cleanest air for outdoor activities, though humidity can make pollution feel more oppressive when it does occur. The transition months of April-May and October-November see variable conditions as seasonal winds shift. During the rainy season, reduced agricultural burning and better atmospheric mixing contribute to cleaner air, though occasional pollution spikes can occur from urban sources during dry spells. The monsoon flow from the south brings moisture that helps settle dust but can also contribute to haze formation under certain conditions. For optimal outdoor exercise, residents should target early mornings during the wet season when pollution levels are lowest and temperatures are moderate. Throughout the year, indoor air quality can be compromised by cooking with solid fuels, making proper ventilation essential for respiratory health.