DNA Testing Bombshell: ‘1 in 4 Nigerian Men Not Biological Fathers’ Says Report

Mary Nnah

A shocking report by Smart DNA, a leading DNA testing centre in Lagos, has revealed that a staggering 27% of paternity tests conducted in Nigeria came back negative, meaning that more than 1 in 4 men tested were not the biological fathers of the children in question.

According to a press release made available to THSDAY, The report, which covers DNA testing trends in Nigeria from July 2023 to June 2024, also shows a significant surge in DNA tests for immigration purposes, aligning with the ongoing “Japa” phenomenon of Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.

This bombshell finding suggests that paternity uncertainty is a widespread issue in Nigeria, with far-reaching implications for families, relationships, and societal norms.

The report also noted a significant surge in DNA tests for immigration purposes, aligning with Nigerians’ ongoing “Japa” phenomenon seeking opportunities abroad. This trend reflects the growing desire for Nigerians to escape the country’s economic and social challenges but also raises concerns about the emotional and psychological impact on families left behind.

Elizabeth Digia, Operations Manager at Smart DNA, said, “These findings offer a unique window into the changing dynamics of Nigerian families and society. The high rate of negative paternity tests and the surge in immigration-related testing are particularly noteworthy, reflecting broader societal trends that merit further discussion and research.”

The report’s findings also highlight a stark divide between Lagos’ Mainland and Island, with an overwhelming 73.1% of all DNA tests conducted in Lagos. This concentration raises important questions about access to DNA testing services across Nigeria, with many citizens likely facing significant barriers to obtaining these crucial services.

“The high rate of negative paternity tests and the surge in immigration-related testing are particularly noteworthy. They reflect broader societal trends that merit further discussion and research.”

“The concentration of testing in Lagos also raises important questions about accessibility and awareness of DNA testing services across Nigeria. As a company, we’re committed to expanding access to our services nationwide while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and confidentiality”, Digia noted.

Furthermore, the report reveals a significant gender imbalance in test initiation, with men accounting for 88.2% of all test requests. This disparity raises important questions about gender roles, trust issues in relationships, and societal pressures on paternity certainty.