Nasal Index and External Nasal Morphometry in the Hausa-Fulani Population of Sokoto State

The external nose exhibits considerable variation in shape and size across ethnic groups, making nasal morphometry a valuable tool in forensic identification, rhinoplasty planning, and population genetics research. The nasal index, defined as the ratio of nasal width to nasal height multiplied by 100, classifies noses as leptorrhine, mesorrhine, or platyrrhine. Although the Hausa-Fulani population constitutes a significant proportion of Nigeria's population, detailed nasal anthropometric data for this group remain poorly documented. This study aims to measure nasal dimensions and compute the nasal index among adult Hausa-Fulani volunteers in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional design will be employed, with participants recruited from community health centres and university campuses in Sokoto metropolis. Measurements including nasal height, nasal width, and columellar length will be collected using a sliding calliper. Sex differences in nasal dimensions will be statistically evaluated. The study anticipates establishing ethnic-specific nasal morphometric norms for the Hausa-Fulani group, which will benefit forensic anthropologists, plastic surgeons, and craniofacial researchers operating in northern Nigeria.

Keywords: nasal index, nasal morphometry, Hausa-Fulani, forensic anthropology, Sokoto