Nigerian Scholar Mubarak Mahmud Innovates Tree Height Measurement Method
In a groundbreaking development for forestry science, Nigerian scholar Mubarak Mahmud, a PhD graduate from Université Paris-Saclay, has introduced a revolutionary method for measuring tree heights.
Dubbed the Mahmud Method, this innovative technique combines photography and mathematical principles—particularly Thales’ theorem—to achieve an unprecedented near-perfect correlation (0.998) with actual tree heights.
The Mahmud Method has been published in the prestigious journal Smart Agricultural Technology and is poised to be incorporated into forestry education curricula at select institutions worldwide.
To further enhance its accessibility and precision, an Android application leveraging artificial intelligence has been developed, making the method more user-friendly and accurate for researchers and forestry professionals.
To commemorate this remarkable achievement, a special event will be held on April 30, 2025, at the Institut Diversité Écologie et Évolution du Vivant (IDEEV) at Université Paris-Saclay in Gif-sur-Yvette, France.
The event will celebrate Mahmud’s contributions to forestry science and underscore the importance of international collaboration in driving scientific innovation.
Dr. Laure Barthes, Mahmud’s thesis director, lauded the breakthrough as a shining example of Nigeria’s academic excellence and its growing influence in global scientific research. The achievement has also received widespread recognition from key institutions, including Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education, the Kano State Ministry of Education, and the Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology in Kano.
This milestone not only highlights Nigeria’s emerging role in forestry technology and artificial intelligence but also reinforces the country’s impact on global scientific advancements. Mahmud’s work is expected to transform forestry practices, offering a more efficient and accurate tool for researchers and environmentalists worldwide.
As the Mahmud Method gains traction, it stands as a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in addressing complex scientific challenges. The global scientific community eagerly anticipates its widespread adoption and the potential it holds for shaping the future of forestry and environmental conservation.