Itele, situated in Ogun State, Nigeria, at coordinates 6.7667°N, 4.0625°E, is a rapidly growing urban area within the Lagos metropolitan region. The terrain is generally flat, characteristic of the coastal plain of southwestern Nigeria, with an elevation hovering around 20-30 meters above sea level. This low-lying geography, combined with its proximity to the Lagos Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, influences local weather patterns and air circulation. Itele’s position within the broader Lagos-Ibadan corridor places it near significant industrial activity, particularly in areas like Ikeja and Otta, contributing to regional pollution sources. Surrounding Itele are agricultural lands, primarily subsistence farming, but these are increasingly giving way to residential and commercial development. The urban-rural gradient is becoming blurred as Itele expands, absorbing previously rural areas. Dust from unpaved roads and construction sites is a significant local contributor to particulate matter. The city’s growth, while economically positive, is outpacing infrastructure development, including waste management and transportation systems, exacerbating air quality challenges. The prevailing winds, typically from the southwest during the rainy season, can transport pollutants from Lagos and other industrial centres towards Itele, impacting local air quality. The dense population and increasing vehicle traffic further compound these issues.

Itele experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, spanning November to March, is characterized by harmattan winds bringing dust from the Sahara Desert, significantly increasing particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) concentrations. This period sees the poorest air quality, with reduced visibility and increased respiratory issues. January and February are particularly challenging months. The transition period, March to April, brings increased humidity and sporadic rainfall, offering temporary relief. The wet season, from May to October, generally offers improved air quality due to rainfall scavenging pollutants from the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also foster mold growth, impacting indoor air quality. August and September, peak rainfall months, are typically the most favourable for outdoor activities. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler, drier nights, can trap pollutants near ground level, worsening conditions even during the wet season. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the harmattan and periods of stagnant air. Monitoring local weather forecasts and avoiding peak traffic hours are crucial for mitigating health risks.