SPATIAL ANALYSIS OF TELECOMMUNICATION MAST DISTRIBUTION IN MUBI METROPOLIS, ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA: RESIDENTS’ ADAPTATION STRATEGY PERSPECTIVE

Telecommunication masts are essential forglobal communication systems. However, research reveals an uneven distribution ofthese infrastructures in urban areas and raises health and environmental concerns. This study aims to analyse the spatial distribution of telecommunication masts in Mubi metropolis and the adaptive strategies employed by residents in response to related challenges. The study utilized primary and secondary data, including distances from masts to nearby building sand health concerns reported by residents. The evaluation included the specific locations of all active masts in the Mubi metropolis. All but one of the 102 distributed questionnaires were analyzed. A random sampling technique was employed to choose three households near each mast for questionnaire administration. Additional data collection instruments for the study included a TECNO Spark 30C camera for photographic documentation, a 72H Garmin GPS device for location tracking, and measuring tape for distance measurements. ArcGIS version 10.5 and Microsoft Excel 2013 were utilized for data processing and analysis. The study found that MTN, Airtel, and Glo are the active telecommunication companies in Mubi metropolis. Notably, 29.4% of the masts are operated jointly by MTN and Airtel, following principles of sharing and co-location. However, telecommunication operators in Mubi metropolis often neglect the prescribed national minimum setback distance. The trend of non-compliance with established setback regulations necessitates the formulation of various coping strategies by residents. Consequently, the study recommended orienting residential structures away from the proximity of telecommunication masts.