Assessing Electromagnetic Field Exposure Levels from Selected Base Transceiver Stations in Uromi Metropolis of Nigeria

— Concerns have been raised regarding potential health risks associated with exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by BTS installations. Despite regulatory standards set by organizations such as the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and national regulatory bodies like the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), empirical research on actual EMF exposure levels in specific locations remains scarce. This study aimed to assess electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure levels from selected base transceiver stations (BTSs) in Uromi metropolis of Nigeria. Using a combination of precise geolocation techniques and EMF meters, EMF exposure levels were measured at predetermined distances around ten selected BTS sites in the Uromi Metropolis. Data collection involved radial measurements around each BTS, extending from 20 meters to 100 meters in distance, along three distinct directions. The results revealed varying levels of EMF exposure across the selected BTS sites, with the highest average power density and specific absorption rate (SAR) recorded at BTS 9, with an average power density of 0.02571 W/m² and an average SAR value of 0.000862 W/kg at a distance of 80m.Despite localized areas of elevated radiation levels, the overall average power density remained below the ICNIRP standards for GSM 900 and GSM 1800 frequencies, indicating minimal risk of EMF exposure to residents in the vicinity of the BTS sites. The study findings suggest that EMF radiation emitted by mobile BTS installations in the Uromi Metropolis of Nigeria falls within permissible limits, as defined by international and national regulatory standard