Assessment of Air Quality and Respiratory Health Risks Near Cement Production Facilities in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria

Cement manufacturing is one of the major contributors to industrial air pollution in Nigeria, generating particulate matter and gaseous emissions that pose health risks to surrounding communities. This study assessed ambient air quality at varying distances from a cement production facility in Sokoto State and examined associated respiratory health risks among exposed residents. Particulate matter of diameter less than 2.5 micrometres and less than 10 micrometres were measured using portable air quality monitors at four sampling points positioned at 500-metre intervals from the facility boundary. Concentrations of sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide were determined using gas detector tubes. A structured questionnaire was administered to 200 adult residents from communities near the facility and a control community five kilometres away. Results showed particulate matter concentrations at the nearest sampling point exceeding the Nigerian ambient air quality standard by over 40 percent. Respiratory symptom prevalence, including chronic cough, breathlessness, and chest tightness, was significantly higher among residents in proximity to the cement plant. Distance from the facility was inversely correlated with symptom frequency. The study provides evidence supporting the need for stricter emission controls, installation of dust suppression systems, and mandatory health impact assessments for cement plants operating near residential areas in North West Nigeria. Keywords: air quality, particulate matter, cement production, respiratory health, Sokoto State.