Assessment of Ambient Atmospheric Concentration of Volatile Organic Compounds in Abuja-Nigeria

An assessment of the ambient air in Abuja have revealed the presence of various concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)/low explosive limit gases. In this study, ambient emission inventory of low explosive limit (LEL) gases such as methane were taken using BW Technology GasAlaert® Microclip (gas detection instrument) from various sample points in Abuja municipal area council, Kuje and Dobi in Gwagwalada area council. The results show that high concentration of LEL were detected in Abuja municipal area council which can be attributed to increased population growth, increased production of gaseous wastes and increased number of industries. However, no LEL was detected in Kuje area council and with only emission of gases stable at (6.97%) from point P26 to P50 in Dobi, Gwagwalada area council which was due to decomposed refuse around the market and milling machines waste within settlements, in Dobi village.