Assessment of Radiofrequency Radiation Exposure from Smart Meters Installed in Residential Areas of Abuja

Background: The ongoing rollout of smart electricity meters in Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory has raised public concerns about continuous radiofrequency radiation exposure in residential environments. Evidence-based exposure assessment is needed to inform regulatory policy. Aim: This study assessed radiofrequency radiation exposure levels from smart meters installed in residential buildings in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory. Methods: Electric field strength and power density measurements were conducted at distances of 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 metres from 25 smart meters using a calibrated Narda broadband RF field analyser. Measurements were compared with ICNIRP general public reference levels. Smart meter transmission duty cycles were characterised using a spectrum analyser. Results: Peak power density at 0.1 metres from smart meter faces averaged 0.48 mW/m2, compared with the ICNIRP reference of 10,000 mW/m2. All measured values were more than four orders of magnitude below the applicable safety limit. Transmission duty cycles were below 1%. Conclusion: Smart meter RF exposure in Abuja residential environments is negligible relative to established safety guidelines. The study provides evidence-based reassurance to public and regulators and supports continued smart meter rollout. Keywords: smart meter, radiofrequency radiation, exposure assessment, Abuja, ICNIRP.