By: Manoah Kikekon
Lagos, Nigeria – A shocking new report by Smart DNA Nigeria has revealed that one in every four Nigerian fathers who take paternity tests discover they are not the biological parent of their child.
The findings, released in the 2025 Annual DNA Testing Report, highlight a growing paternity crisis, raising concerns about trust, family dynamics, and legal implications in Nigeria.
Between July 2024 and June 2025, 25% of paternity tests conducted by the Lagos-based genetic testing firm returned negative results, meaning the presumed father was not biologically related to the child. While this marks a slight decrease from 27% in 2024, experts warn that the trend remains deeply concerning.
"These findings go beyond science they reveal deep-seated issues of trust, relationships, and the socio-economic pressures facing Nigerian families today. Our goal is to provide clarity while handling these sensitive situations with care."
64% of firstborn boys tested were not biologically related to their presumed fathers, a much higher rate than later-born children. Due to Nigeria’s emigration wave, immigration-related DNA tests surged to 13.1%, as families seek documentation for relocation. 88.2% of tests were requested by men, with nearly half (45.5%) initiated by men aged 41 and above, suggesting financial stability influences testing decisions. While 69% of tests were conducted in Lagos, demand is rising in Lekki (20.3%), Yaba (15.8%), and Ajah/Ikorodu (10.5% each)demand is rising in Lekki (20.3%), Yaba (15.8%), and Ajah/Ikorodu (10.5% each). Yoruba families accounted for 53% of tests, followed by Igbo (31.3%), while Hausa participation remained low (1.2%), indicating cultural differences in paternity concerns.
83.7% of tests were for "peace of mind", not legal reasons. 53.8% of tested children were male, suggesting a cultural focus on male lineage and inheritance. Children aged 0-5 made up 58.6% of tests, showing parents seek early clarity to avoid future disputes.
Digia emphasized that many clients come forward after years of doubt, often facing emotional and financial turmoil. "These numbers reflect only those who had reason to question paternity not all Nigerian families. But the trend calls for a policy framework to address legal and psychological impacts," she said.