EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE IN RESIDENTIAL ZONES OF PORT HARCOURT’

Abstract

This study evaluated environmental noise exposure in selected residential zones of Port Harcourt City, Nigeria, with the aim of determining ambient noise levels and assessing spatial and temporal variations in noise exposure. A mixed‑methods approach was adopted. Environmental noise measurements were conducted over a seven‑day period at twelve fixed locations across three residential zones Diobu, Old Government Residential Area, and Rumuola—representing high‑, medium‑, and relatively lower‑density residential environments. Key noise descriptors, including equivalent continuous sound level (LAeq), maximum (Lmax), minimum (Lmin), statistical levels (L10 and L90), and day–evening–night level (Lden), were computed. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, one‑way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with Tukey post‑hoc tests, exceedance indices, and graphical techniques. The findings revealed that environmental noise levels across all residential zones consistently exceeded both the Nigerian National Environmental (Noise Standards and Control) Regulations and World Health Organization guideline limits. Diobu recorded the highest mean LAeq (67.28 dB(A)) and the greatest exceedance margins, with statistically significant spatial differences in noise exposure (F = 22.08, p < 0.001). Noise exposure persisted across weekdays and weekends, with particularly elevated levels during evening and night‑time periods. The study concludes that environmental noise in Port Harcourt City constitutes a chronic, spatially uneven, and health‑relevant environmental challenge, highlighting the need for integrated urban planning, strengthened regulatory enforcement, improved energy infrastructure, and health‑oriented noise management strategies.