DNA tests reveal one in four Nigerian men not biological fathers of their children – Report
“These findings offer a unique window into the changing dynamics of Nigerian families and society”
A recent study of DNA trends in Nigeria has found that 27 percent of paternity tests yielded negative results, indicating that more than one in four men tested were not the biological fathers of their children.
The study was carried out by Smart DNA, a diagnostics company based in Lagos, between July 2023 and June 2024. It revealed that 88.2 percent of test requests were initiated by men, with only 11.8 percent by women.
The study also showed a preference for early paternity confirmation, as 54.0 percent of the tested children were under five years old.
Additionally, more tests were conducted on male children (52.8 percent) than female children (47.2 percent).
In terms of age groups, men aged 41 and older were more likely to request tests, accounting for 45.6 percent compared to 37 percent for those aged 31 to 40. This may be attributed to factors such as economic stability or heightened concerns about paternity in older men.
Ethnically, the majority of tests were conducted among the Yoruba (53 percent), followed by the Igbo (31.3 percent), with the Hausa representing only 1.2 percent.
Most tests (85.9 percent) were attributed to achieving ‘peace of mind’, highlighting the personal rather than legal motivations behind DNA testing in Nigeria.
Elizabeth Digia, operations manager at Smart DNA, said “These findings offer a unique window into the changing dynamics of Nigerian families and society.”
She added that, “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 study also revealed that paternity uncertainty is on the rise, and crucial immigration documentation is driving a surge in DNA testing, growing more than any other test type.
Smart DNA believes this trend aligns with the ongoing ‘Japa’ phenomenon, as more Nigerians seek opportunities abroad. It indicates a growing number of parents with dual citizenship processing paperwork for their children’s emigration, especially in Lagos.
Approximately 73.1 percent of all DNA tests were conducted in Lagos, with the mainland accounting for 67.5 percent and the island 32.5 percent.
“This concentration highlights the economic divide within Lagos and across Nigeria, raising questions about access to such services in other parts of the country,” the company said in an official statement. …Continue Reading
