- The air quality levels of Ihiagwa, Ekeonunwa, and Amakohia main markets were assessed. The objectives of this research were to examine those activities that affect air quality, identify the gases emitted, measure the concentration, and suggest ways to minimize them. The study was carried out within three days and readings were taken morning, afternoon, and evening in each market. The concentrations of the gases emitted in the study area were measured using a haze dust particulate monitor, the Crowcon gas man monitor, GPS, and MRU AMPRO2000 gas monitor. The parameters determined were Carbon monoxide (CO), Ammonia (NH3), Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Sulphur dioxide (SO2), particulate matter (PM10), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and Methane (CH4). The values of the data generated were compared with the acceptable limits given by the Federal Ministry of Environment. The result obtained shows that the mean concentration of Carbon monoxide (CO), varied from 0.00-28.80 (7.09±0.60)ppm. Ammonia (NH3) mean concentration ranges from 0.00-25.00(1.96±0.40)ppm while nitrogen dioxide (NO₂)mean levels varied from 0.02- 0.41(0.17±0.01)ppm. The average values for sulfur dioxide (SO₂) were between 0.02-0.83(0.26±0.01) ppm while hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) average values were from 0.00-2.81(0.38±0.040)ppm. The particulate matter (PM10) average concentration was 3.48- 36.00(18.9±0.69)mg/m3 . The mean concentration of flammable gas methane (CH4) was 0.00- 1.50(0.23±0.04)LEL%. It was found that PM10, NO2, and SO2 all exceeded the limit given by the Federal Ministry of Environment. This study, therefore, recommends continuous monitoring of the ambient air quality of the market to know the evolution of the concentration levels of these gases for the protection of lives and properties within the surrounding communities.

Keywords : Air Quality, Gas Concentration, Particulate Matter, and Flammable Gas.