Urgent Public Health Action: Preventing PM 2.5 Pollution from Nigerian Refineries, by Rasheed Azeez

In various cities across Nigeria where refineries are located, an invisible threat pollutes the air people breathe. Refineries, crucial to Nigeria’s economy, are silently contributing to increased levels of PM 2.5—tiny particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter. These particles could cause serious health issues for citizens. Addressing this pollution is not just an environmental concern; it is a matter of public health urgency. Recent studies have shown that PM 2.5 is linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in low and middle-income countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that long-term exposure can lead to chronic conditions and premature death. For residents across Nigeria, clean air is becoming a rare commodity even without adding those generated by the refineries. Professor Omolade Adunbi, in his book “Oil Wealth and Insurgency in Nigeria”, highlights the paradox of Nigeria’s oil industry. While it generates significant revenue, it also causes environmental degradation and health hazards. Professor Adunbi emphasizes the need to balance economic benefits with health and environmental impacts to safeguard people’s health and well-being.

Currently, many refineries in Nigeria are not fully operational. For example, the Dangote refinery, the largest in Africa, has not begun full-scale operations. Despite this, the anticipation of increased refinery activities raises concerns about future air quality for Nigerians. As more refineries become operational, the potential for higher PM 2.5 levels increases, posing greater risks to public health. PM 2.5 refers to particulate matter small enough to enter the lungs and bloodstream. Sources include vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and refinery operations. These tiny particles are a major component of air pollution and pose severe health risks. PM 2.5 can worsen asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions. It increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic respiratory diseases and lung cancer. Vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, are particularly at risk as stated in extant research studies.

As citizens, awareness and action are crucial. We have to stay informed about air quality reports and avoid outdoor activities when pollution levels are high. We must ensure that we protect our children and the elderly by using air purifiers at home and considering masks outdoors during high pollution periods. Also, we must support initiatives for cleaner technologies in refineries and other industries. In the same, we should support public advocacy to drive policy changes and stricter emission standards and engage in community activities like planting trees and creating green spaces to help absorb pollutants.

Further, as citizens, we must advocate for stricter emission regulations and regular air quality monitoring and push for policies that require refineries to adopt advanced emission control technologies. We must understand that every voice counts in the fight for cleaner air. While industrial sources are significant, we should note that our contributions to air pollution could also help. We should use public transportation, carpool, and minimize the use of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces. In short, if need be, we should engage in more active mobility activities like cycling or walking. Lastly, we should be aware of the air quality index (AQI) in our areas and plan our outdoor activities accordingly.