Assessment of Air Quality Around a Cement Manufacturing Plant in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria

Cement production is a significant source of airborne particulate matter and gaseous pollutants that adversely affect ambient air quality and the health of communities residing near manufacturing facilities. This study assesses ambient air quality parameters around a cement plant in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria, at distances of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 5.0 kilometres from the plant boundary in four cardinal directions. Parameters measured include PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter concentrations, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide using calibrated real-time monitoring instruments and passive diffusion tubes. Meteorological variables including wind speed, wind direction, temperature, and relative humidity are recorded simultaneously to support dispersion modelling. Sampling is conducted during morning, afternoon, and night periods across five days representative of peak and off-peak production cycles. Results are compared against Nigerian ambient air quality standards and World Health Organization guidelines. Residents within each sampling zone complete structured health questionnaires documenting respiratory symptoms, eye irritation, and general wellbeing. Statistical analysis examines concentration-distance gradients and the significance of wind direction on pollutant distribution. The study provides locally relevant air quality data useful for regulatory compliance assessment and community health protection planning in the industrial corridor of the North West geopolitical zone. Keywords: air quality, cement plant, particulate matter, Sokoto, industrial pollution