CHINYERE IKEANYI
In a bold move to tackle Nigeria’s escalating urban air pollution crisis, Lagos and Port Harcourt are set to benefit from a pioneering initiative employing low-cost sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The 18-month project, titled “PM2.5 Monitoring and Policy Recommendations for Lagos and Port Harcourt Transport Systems Using Low-Cost Sensors and Artificial Intelligence,” officially kicked off on February 1, 2025, with funding from the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC).
PM2.5 particles—tiny airborne pollutants that penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream—are a major cause of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Nigeria’s limited air quality monitoring infrastructure has left policymakers in the dark regarding pollution levels, hindering effective intervention. This project aims to fill that gap, providing real-time data to inform health and transport policies.
The initiative deploys 15 low-cost sensors—10 in Lagos and 5 in Port Harcourt—along key transport corridors for continuous 12-month monitoring. Using AI analysis, the project will forecast pollution trends, enabling authorities to anticipate and mitigate air quality issues proactively. The open-access data platform aims to foster transparency and public engagement, empowering citizens and policymakers alike.
Lagos, Africa’s largest megacity, struggles with heavy vehicular traffic, while Port Harcourt faces additional pollution from industrial activities and oil-related emissions. Prof. Vincent Weli from the University of Port Harcourt highlights that this initiative will establish a crucial baseline and develop targeted, science-backed solutions for each city’s unique pollution profile.
Dr. Davies Rene Segera from the University of Nairobi emphasizes that AI’s sophisticated forecasting capabilities will enable Nigeria to shift from reactive measures to proactive, data-driven policies. “AI brings a new level of understanding, allowing us to predict pollution patterns based on traffic, weather, and urban development,” he explains.
Local agencies such as the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) are actively involved, aiming to translate data insights into effective regulations and sustainable transport solutions. The project also seeks to map existing air quality efforts nationwide, guiding future investments.
Richard Sserunjogi of the AirQo team underscores that this project exemplifies how data science and environmental science can converge to address urgent public health challenges. “Our goal is to make this data accessible, impactful, and ultimately, a catalyst for cleaner, healthier Nigerian cities,” he states.
Supporting the next generation of researchers, PhD student Nnanna Onyema expresses enthusiasm about contributing to Nigeria’s environmental health: “Being part of this project offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while gaining invaluable experience.”
With objectives focused on improving air quality data access, predicting pollution trends, establishing pollution baselines, and informing policy, this initiative marks a significant leap toward smarter, healthier urban environments in Nigeria. Funded by EPIC, the project demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to innovative solutions for environmental and public health challenges.
For more information, contact:
Dr. Rose Alani
Lead, Air Quality Monitoring Research Group (AQMRG)
University of Lagos
ralani@unilag.edu.ng
+234 802 521 3236
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