The Equatorial Electrojet Current as Observed in Nigeria

The Equatorial Electrojet (EEJ) is a significant current system in the ionospheric that influences the Earth’s magnetic field. This study examines the Equatorial electrojet current as observed over Nigerian magnetic observatories in 2008, using Lagos and Ilorin stations. Data from the horizontal component (H) of the geomagnetic field were converted from minute values to hourly values. The data was analyzed using international quiet days to determine the diurnal and seasonal behavior of the equatorial electrojet. The result revealed the temporal variations of the EEJ over a 24- hour period, with a distinct local noon peak at 24(nT) followed by a decline in the evening hours and notable seasonal variation. The peak value of the horizontal component 24nT was attributed to the presence of an equatorial electrojet over the magnetic equator. The strength of the equatorial electrojet showed remarkable seasonal variation, with higher amplitudes during equinox months. This finding provides insights into ionospheric current systems in the Nigerian sector and contributes to the understanding of equatorial electrodynamics relevant to communication and navigation systems.