Assessment of Electromagnetic Radiation Emissions from Mobile Base Stations in Gwarinpa, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation emissions from 13 selected mobile base stations in Gwarinpa, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria. Electric field strength, magnetic field strength, and power density were measured to determine whether the emissions complied with international public-exposure reference levels. A calibrated TENMARS radiofrequency electromagnetic field meter, covering 10 MHz to 8 GHz, was used for the field measurements. Measurements were obtained under normal operating conditions at distances of 5, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 m from each base station. The measured values varied among stations and across distances. The maximum electric field strength was 12,911 mV/m, equivalent to 12.911 V/m; the maximum magnetic field strength was 34,250 µA/m, equivalent to 0.03425 A/m; and the maximum power density was 442,000 µW/m², equivalent to 0.442 W/m². Each maximum value was below the applicable International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection reference levels for public exposure within the relevant radiofrequency range. Higher measurements were generally observed at intermediate distances rather than directly beneath the antenna structures, indicating spatial variation among the assessed locations. Within the measurement period and sampled locations, the mobile base stations complied with the international exposure limits used for comparison. The findings support periodic monitoring, appropriate siting, and clear public communication as telecommunications infrastructure expands in residential areas. The study provides site-specific baseline data for regulatory surveillance and future radiofrequency exposure assessments in Gwarinpa.