When it comes to DNA testing in Nigeria, one common question people always ask is “How much is a DNA test? This is because DNA testing is generally viewed as an expensive procedure. However, this is not the case. There are different types of DNA testing services, each with its own unique use cases, procedures and cost implications.
In this guide, we are going to walk you through each of the different DNA tests and their associated costs so you can make informed decisions.
What is a Relationship DNA Test
A DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) relationship test is the use of genetic profiles to determine whether an individual is the biological parent of another individual. Four of the most popular relationship DNA tests available in Nigeria:
- Personal Paternity (Peace of Mind) Test
- Prenatal Paternity Test
- Immigration DNA Test
- Legal Paternity DNA Test
- Cost of Personal Paternity (Peace of Mind) Test In Nigeria
The cost of a standard peace of mind paternity DNA test in Nigeria ranges from N200,000 to 450,000 thousand Naira depending on the clinic. The standard test involves collecting a simple mouth swab sample from the alleged father and the child. A non-standard paternity test involves taking a DNA test with other samples like hairs, bloodstains, fingernails, clothes e.t.c. You can use this method when it’s impossible for you to provide a saliva (oral swab) sample. For the non-standard test, the price ranges from N300,000 to 600,000 thousand Naira.
The standard personal paternity (Peace of Mind) test is the simplest and quickest way to confirm whether or not an alleged man is the biological father of a child. The procedure involves collecting and examining the DNA of a small sample of bodily fluid (usually a buccal swab) from a child and the alleged father. For this test, DNA samples can be collected at the DNA centre or from the comfort of your home.
- Cost of Prenatal Paternity Test In Nigeria
The cost of a non-invasive prenatal paternity DNA test in Nigeria ranges from 2,000,000 to 3.5 Million Naira depending on the clinic. The non-invasive prenatal paternity DNA test is used to determine whether a potential father is the biological father of a baby before the baby is born. It involves taking cheek (buccal) swabs from the alleged father(s) and a blood sample from the mother to conduct a fetal cell analysis. The test is performed by analyzing the baby’s DNA and comparing DNA markers to the alleged father(s).
- Cost of Immigration DNA Test
The cost of a standard Immigration DNA test in Nigeria ranges from N300,000 to 600,000 thousand Naira depending on the clinic. The standard test involves collecting a simple mouth swab sample from the alleged father and the child. For an immigration relationship test to be acceptable to the requesting authority, it must be carried out under a strict chain of custody.
DNA testing is a powerful tool for verifying relationships between family members, and can prove invaluable when used for immigration cases, applications and appeals, and in support of passport applications.
- Cost of Legal Paternity DNA Test In Nigeria
The cost of a standard Legal Paternity DNA test in Nigeria ranges from 300,000 to 600,000 thousand Naira depending on the clinic. The standard test involves collecting a simple mouth swab sample from the alleged father and the child. Other types of samples (like hairs, bloodstains, fingernails, clothes e.t.c.) can be used for the test but at an additional cost ranging from 300,000 – to 500,00 thousand Naira.
The legal paternity DNA test offers a court-approved legal DNA test for people who need their test results to be used in a court of law. This test can be used to settle different family-related legal matters like alimony, child custody, child support, inheritance dispute, and change of name on a birth certificate. It is important to note that the legal paternity DNA test is different from a standard home paternity test which is only done for ‘peace of mind’ purposes. For a legal paternity DNA test to be acceptable by the embassy, it must be carried out under the proper chain of custody. It means that the sample collection for the DNA test must be carried out in front of the judge or in the presence of a court-appointed representative.
| DNA Test Type (Standard) | Price Range | |
| Paternity DNA Testing | N200,000 – 450,000 | |
| Prenatal DNA Testing | 2,000,00 to 3,500,000 | |
| Legal DNA Testing | N300,000 – 600,000 | |
| Immigration DNA Testing | N300,000 – 600,000 |
If you are considering taking a DNA test, it is important that you choose a professional DNA center that you can trust. Smart DNA is a leading provider of DNA testing in Nigeria. We provide fully accredited DNA testing services to clients in accordance with the highest international standards.