Smart DNA, a prominent DNA testing center based in Lagos, has just released its highly anticipated 2024 report on DNA testing trends across Nigeria, covering the period from July 2023 to June 2024. The findings, which offer a window into the evolving social and economic landscape of Nigeria, reveal several intriguing trends that reflect shifts in family structures, economic disparities, and migration patterns.One of the standout revelations from the report is the persistent issue of paternity uncertainty in Nigeria. According to the data, 27% of paternity tests returned negative results, meaning that over one in four men tested were not the biological fathers of the children in question. This statistic highlights ongoing challenges related to trust and family dynamics, sparking conversations around the reasons behind such high levels of paternity discrepancies.Regionally, Lagos remains the epicenter of DNA testing activity in Nigeria, underscoring the economic divide within the country. An overwhelming 73.1% of all DNA tests were conducted in Lagos, with a significant divide between the Mainland (67.5%) and the Island (32.5%). This concentration in Lagos points to the greater access to DNA testing services in urban areas, particularly in economically advantaged regions, raising questions about accessibility in other parts of the country.One of the key trends highlighted in the report is the surge in immigration-related DNA testing, a reflection of Nigeria’s increasing migration wave. The so-called “Japa” trend, where Nigerians seek opportunities abroad, has led to a sharp rise in DNA testing for immigration purposes. The report suggests that a growing number of parents, particularly those with dual citizenship, are processing the necessary paperwork for their children's emigration, further fueling the demand for such tests.Ethnicity also played a role in DNA testing trends, with the Yoruba ethnic group accounting for the largest share at 53% of all tests. The Igbo ethnic group followed at 31.3%, while the Hausa group accounted for a mere 1.2%. These figures not only provide insight into the demographic distribution of DNA testing in Nigeria but may also reflect broader societal factors, such as economic access and cultural attitudes towards testing.
