The 2024 report from Smart DNA, a prominent DNA testing center in Lagos, has highlighted ongoing concerns regarding paternity uncertainty in Nigeria. Covering the period from July 2023 to June 2024, the report reveals that 27% of paternity tests conducted during this time returned negative results, indicating that more than one in four men tested were not the biological fathers of the children involved. This high rate underscores a significant issue in family dynamics and societal trust in Nigeria.
The report also points to a surge in DNA tests related to immigration, driven by the increasing number of Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad—a trend commonly referred to as “Japa.” The rise in immigration-related testing suggests that many parents, especially those with dual citizenship, are actively preparing their children for emigration.
Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, dominated the DNA testing landscape, accounting for 73.1% of all tests. Within Lagos, the Mainland had a higher concentration of tests (67.5%) compared to the Island (32.5%), reflecting the broader economic disparities within the city and across the country. Regionally, the Yoruba ethnic group represented the majority of those tested (53%), followed by the Igbo (31.3%), with the Hausa at a mere 1.2%.
Elizabeth Digia, Operations Manager at Smart DNA, emphasized that these findings provide valuable insights into the evolving structure of Nigerian families and societal trends. The high incidence of negative paternity tests and the increasing demand for immigration-related testing are areas that call for further research and discussion. She also pointed out the need to improve accessibility to DNA testing services across Nigeria.
The report additionally highlighted that the majority of children tested were between the ages of 0 and 5, suggesting a preference for early paternity confirmation. Men aged 41 and above were the most likely to request tests, possibly due to heightened paternity concerns or economic stability in older age. There was also a slight gender bias, with more tests being conducted on male children (52.8%) than female children (47.2%), indicating a possible cultural inclination to confirm the paternity of male offspring.
Finally, the report noted that the majority of DNA tests (85.9%) were conducted for personal peace of mind rather than legal reasons, revealing the deep personal and emotional implications of paternity testing in Nigeria.
