A prominent DNA testing center in Lagos, Smart DNA, has released its 2024 report, highlighting significant trends in DNA testing across Nigeria from July 2023 to June 2024.
The report reveals striking insights into societal dynamics, economic factors, and evolving family structures in the country.
One of the most startling findings is the high level of paternity uncertainty.
The report shows that 27% of paternity tests conducted returned negative results, indicating that more than one in four men tested were not the biological fathers of the children in question.
The report also highlights a surge in DNA tests related to immigration, reflecting the growing “Japa” trend, where more Nigerians are seeking opportunities abroad.
This increase in immigration tests suggests that a rising number of parents with dual citizenship are processing emigration paperwork for their children.
Regionally, Lagos dominates the DNA testing landscape, accounting for 73.1% of all tests conducted. This regional concentration, with 67.5% on the Mainland and 32.5% on the Island, underscores the economic disparity within Lagos and raises concerns about access to DNA testing services in other parts of Nigeria.
The Yoruba ethnic group led in testing, making up 53% of tests, followed by the Igbo at 31.3% and the Hausa at only 1.2%.
Operations Manager at Smart DNA, Elizabeth Digia, commented on the findings, stating, “These results offer a unique perspective on the evolving dynamics of Nigerian families and society. The high rate of negative paternity tests and the rise in immigration-related testing reflect broader societal trends that deserve further exploration.”
The report also indicates that most children tested were between the ages of 0-5 (54%), suggesting a preference for early paternity confirmation. Men aged 41 and above (45.6%) and those between 31-40 (37%) were the most likely to request tests, possibly due to economic stability or increased paternity concerns with age.
A slight gender bias was noted, with more tests conducted on male children (52.8%) than female children (47.2%), hinting at a possible cultural preference for confirming the paternity of male offspring.
Lastly, the report found that the majority of DNA tests (85.9%) were conducted for peace of mind rather than legal reasons, highlighting the personal motivations driving the demand for paternity testing in Nigeria.
