Spatial selective electromagnetic field radiation measurement and evaluation of mobile base stations of some cities in Nigeria

Abstract

The research presents the spatial electromagnetic radiofrequency radiation variation of some states in the southern part of Nigeria. The measurements were taken for a month, where about 6 base stations were considered per state, mostly the state capitals. The test drive was done in all the capitals of the considered States adopting the frequency selective Method which is the method approved by (ITU) for the determination of cumulative radiation for every radio signal frequency by the use of Spectrum Analyzer (GW-Instek 100 KHz - 3GHz), eTex 10 Global Positioning System, INSTEK software antenna etc. The measurements were taken at distances 10, 15, 20 and 25 meters from the base stations, and the data were obtained in dBm and converted to power density using EMF Calculator software. Twenty-five readings were taken at every base station (for each distance), and the average values were determined at the end of all the  measurements. It was observed that the power density for the measured states, such as Abia, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Cross Rivers, Anambra and Rivers State lies below the threshold value by the ICNIRP. The values range from 0.023mWv to 2.435mWv, where Edo state has the highest value followed by Akwa Ibom and the lowest was obtained from Anambra state and followed by Cross River State. The results,
along with the coordinates, were used in plotting the contour mapping overlay on the ArcGIS software to show the variation as the distance increases. This result is clear evidence of the radiation level for base stations in some States in the Southern part of Nigeria and it has given assurance to the populace that the mobile communication companies are adhering strictly to the rules that guide their operations and are mindful of the health and well-being of the general populace.