Nigerian Scientist Urges Public to Pay Attention to Air Quality and Climate Link

By Tosin Clegg

Olayemi Temitope, a Nigerian PhD candidate in Chemistry at Purdue University, has warned of the growing threat that poor air quality poses to both public health and climate stability. Speaking to journalists at a virtual climate roundtable held in Lagos on Monday, Temitope explained how recent scientific findings link airborne particles to the acceleration of global warming, particularly through their interaction with methane.

“A lot of people think of air pollution only in terms of respiratory illness,” Temitope said. “But the truth is, air quality and climate change are two sides of the same coin.”

Temitope, whose research focuses on aerosol–gas interactions, particularly the role of mineral dust and marine particles in atmospheric reactions, said these particles often act as catalysts in complex chemical processes that influence the lifetime of methane, a highly potent greenhouse gas.

“In West Africa, we experience high levels of dust and biomass burning, especially during dry seasons,” he explained. “These particles can alter atmospheric chemistry in ways that make it harder to remove methane naturally.”

Temitope’s research involves a combination of advanced spectroscopic techniques, field sampling, and microscopy to study the behaviour of individual aerosol particles. His work contributes to global efforts to refine climate models and improve understanding of aerosol reactivity.

At the roundtable, which was attended by representatives from the Federal Ministry of Environment, health experts, and civil society groups, Temitope advocated for a national air quality monitoring framework that incorporates chemical reactivity data.

“Air quality data is not just about counting particles,” he said. “We must also understand what those particles are doing chemically — especially their interaction with key gases like methane and ozone.”

He urged state governments and urban planners to consider air chemistry in their policies, particularly when addressing transportation, waste management, and industrial emissions. “You can’t fix what you don’t measure, and you certainly can’t solve a problem you don’t understand,” he noted.

The Purdue researcher, who has contributed to high-impact studies on new particle formation and light-absorbing carbon, also called on the Nigerian media to help simplify scientific findings for the general public. “There’s a knowledge gap that must be filled if we want the public to buy into climate action,” he said.

Participants praised Temitope’s approach of combining deep technical knowledge with a strong commitment to public education. Mrs Chika Umeh, a health consultant, said, “It’s rare to hear science communicated so clearly. We need more voices like his.”

Beyond his academic achievements, Temitope has taken part in research flights and environmental monitoring projects, collaborating with national labs and interdisciplinary teams. He is also passionate about using chemistry to inform policy and advocate for environmental justice.

Speaking on his long-term goals, he said, “My mission is to connect fundamental science with practical solutions. Nigeria has a lot to gain if we act early and invest in local research and innovation.”

As Nigeria grapples with the twin crises of air pollution and climate change, Temitope’s insights provide a scientific foundation for more targeted and effective interventions.

“Clean air is not a luxury,” he concluded. “It’s a necessity — for our health, our economy, and the stability of our climate.”