At Smart DNA, Nigeria’s leading DNA testing center, we are committed to providing accurate, reliable DNA testing services and contributing to the broader understanding of DNA trends in our society. Today, we are excited to share the findings from our comprehensive 2024 report, covering DNA testing trends in Nigeria from July 2023 to June 2024.
Our data shows that 27% of paternity tests conducted at our center came back negative with 73% being positive. This suggests that in the majority of cases, the men seeking testing are indeed the biological fathers. Still, in more than 1 in 4 cases, the tested man is not the biological father of the child.
Our data also reveals interesting geographic and demographic patterns in DNA testing in Nigeria as 73.1% of all tests were conducted in Lagos, with a notable split between Mainland (67.5%)and Island (32.5%).
Aside from Lagos, 5.5% of people who requested a DNA test were from Oyo, 5.3% from Ogun, 4.0% from Rivers and 3.5% from Delta.
The ethnic distribution of our clients presents another interesting dimension. The Yoruba ethnic group accounted for 53% of tests, followed by Igbo (31.3%), with Hausa at only 1.20%. This distribution, which doesn’t align with national ethnic demographics, should prompt discussions about cultural attitudes towards paternity testing and genetic science across different Nigerian ethnicities.
Age-related insights from our data show that the majority of tested children (54%) were aged 0-5, suggesting a preference for early paternity confirmation. Among adults, men aged 41 and above (45.6%) and those between 31-40 (37.0%) conducted the most DNA test. This age group is likely to have young children and may be in financial positions to afford the testing.
Noteworthy of mentioning is the slight gender bias in child testing, with more tests conducted on male children (52.8%) than female children (47.2%). This subtle difference hints at possible cultural preferences for confirming the paternity of male children.
Men were the predominant initiators of contact, making up 88.2% of the first contacts, compared to 11.8% made by women. This shocking revelation suggests that men are more likely to have doubts about paternity or other relationships and take the initiative to seek DNA testing
Interestingly, 85.9% of the test conducted at our center between June 2023 to July 2024 were conducted for ‘Peace of Mind’, highlighting that Nigerians sought DNA testing to confirm biological relationships for personal reasons rather than legal cases. Coming closely was Immigration DNA test, accounting for 11.5% of the test conducted at Smart DNA followed by Avuncular Test (1.22%).
Another point worth noting is the significant increase in DNA tests for immigration purposes. This increase aligns closely with the ongoing “Japa” phenomenon, as more Nigerians seek opportunities abroad. The trend suggests a growing number of parents with dual citizenship are processing paperwork for their children’s emigration, reflecting broader societal and economic shifts in the country.
As we move forward, we at Smart DNA will continue to leverage our expertise to provide top-notch DNA testing services while maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and contributing to the broader understanding of DNA trends in Nigeria.
About Smart DNA
Smart DNA is a premier DNA testing center based in Lagos, Nigeria, offering a comprehensive range of fully accredited DNA testing services. With a commitment to accuracy, confidentiality, and ethical practices, Smart DNA serves clients across Nigeria for relationship testing, immigration purposes, and legal requirements. If are you interested in learning more about our DNA testing services or scheduling an appointment, click here.