Are you searching for how much is DNA test in Nigerian hospitals in 2025? Whether you're planning a paternity test, resolving a legal matter, or seeking answers for personal reasons, this full guide explains the cost of DNA tests in Nigeria, what affects the price, where you can do it, and what to expect at each step.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average cost of DNA testing by state, by type of test, and by hospital or lab provider. You’ll also learn about home DNA test kits, the difference between legal and peace-of-mind DNA tests, and answers to common questions about DNA testing in Nigeria.
What Is a DNA Test?
A DNA test is a scientific method used to analyze a person’s unique genetic material (DNA) to determine biological relationships, identity, or hereditary traits. In Nigeria, DNA tests are commonly used for paternity verification, but they are also used in immigration cases, inheritance disputes, and forensic investigations.
The most popular type of DNA test in Nigeria is the paternity test, which compares the DNA of a child and the alleged father.
How Much Is DNA Test in Nigerian Hospitals in 2025?
As of 2025, the average cost of DNA test in Nigeria ranges from ₦70,000 to ₦350,000, depending on the type of test, number of people involved, the location, and whether the test is legally admissible.
Below is a general cost breakdown:
| Test Type | Estimated Price Range (₦) |
|---|---|
| Peace of Mind Paternity Test | ₦70,000 – ₦150,000 |
| Legal DNA Test (Court-Use) | ₦150,000 – ₦350,000 |
| Prenatal DNA Test | ₦300,000 – ₦600,000 |
| Immigration DNA Test | ₦250,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Sibling DNA Test | ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 |
| Grandparent DNA Test | ₦120,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Twins Zygosity Test | ₦80,000 – ₦150,000 |
Prices may vary slightly depending on whether the test is done at a government hospital, private hospital, or specialized DNA center.
DNA Test Price by Location in Nigeria 2025
The cost of DNA tests in Nigeria also depends on the state or city where you do it. Urban centers with more laboratories and higher demand tend to charge more due to overhead and logistics.
1. Lagos State
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Peace-of-mind paternity test: ₦80,000 – ₦150,000
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Legal test: ₦180,000 – ₦300,000
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Popular providers: Synlab, Smart DNA, DNA Centre Nigeria
2. Abuja (FCT)
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Peace-of-mind: ₦90,000 – ₦160,000
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Legal test: ₦200,000 – ₦350,000
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Providers: Medbury Medical Services, NIMR Abuja Lab
3. Rivers State (Port Harcourt)
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Peace-of-mind: ₦85,000 – ₦130,000
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Legal test: ₦170,000 – ₦280,000
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Providers: Teaching hospitals, private fertility clinics
4. Kano State
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Peace-of-mind: ₦75,000 – ₦120,000
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Legal test: ₦160,000 – ₦270,000
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Providers: Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, private labs
5. Enugu State
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Peace-of-mind: ₦80,000 – ₦130,000
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Legal test: ₦170,000 – ₦250,000
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Providers: UNTH, DNA Plus Enugu
6. Oyo State (Ibadan)
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Peace-of-mind: ₦70,000 – ₦120,000
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Legal test: ₦160,000 – ₦250,000
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Providers: UCH, private diagnostic centers
7. Anambra State
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Peace-of-mind: ₦75,000 – ₦120,000
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Legal test: ₦160,000 – ₦240,000
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Providers: NAUTH Nnewi, Awka-based labs
Types of DNA Tests in Nigeria and Their Uses
1. Peace-of-Mind Paternity Test
This is the most common type. It is done for personal assurance and not valid in court.
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No chain of custody needed
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Can be done anonymously
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Cost: ₦70,000 – ₦150,000
2. Legal DNA Test
This test is used for court matters, child support, custody, or immigration.
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Requires valid ID, court order, and chain-of-custody process
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Witnesses must be present
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Result is legally binding
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Cost: ₦150,000 – ₦350,000
3. Prenatal DNA Test
This is done during pregnancy to determine paternity.
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Non-invasive (blood sample from mother and alleged father)
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Done between 10–24 weeks of pregnancy
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Cost: ₦300,000 – ₦600,000
4. Immigration DNA Test
Used to prove biological relationships in visa or migration applications.
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Must follow embassy guidelines
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May require certified labs
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Cost: ₦250,000 – ₦500,000
5. Sibling or Grandparent Test
Used when the alleged father is unavailable.
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Confirms if two individuals are siblings
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Used in inheritance or family lineage
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Cost: ₦120,000 – ₦300,000
How Long Does DNA Test Take in Nigeria?
Turnaround time depends on the lab and test type.
| Test Type | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Peace-of-mind test | 3 – 7 working days |
| Legal test | 7 – 14 working days |
| Prenatal test | 2 – 3 weeks |
| Immigration test | 2 – 4 weeks |
Some private labs offer express testing (24–48 hours) at an additional fee of ₦30,000 – ₦50,000.
Can You Do DNA Test at Home in Nigeria?
Yes, home DNA test kits are now available in Nigeria. These kits allow you to collect samples using mouth swabs and send them to a lab.
Cost: ₦60,000 – ₦100,000 (excluding shipping)
How it works:
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Order the kit online or from a lab
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Collect samples at home
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Send back for analysis
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Get results via email or portal
Note: Home DNA test results are not admissible in court.
Factors That Affect DNA Test Cost in Nigeria
Several things affect the price you’ll pay for a DNA test:
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Type of test (legal vs. peace-of-mind)
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Number of people involved (father, child, mother)
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Lab reputation and certification
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Location (Lagos is usually more expensive)
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Urgency of result
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Sample collection method (blood, buccal swab, or prenatal)
List of Popular DNA Test Providers in Nigeria (2025)
Here are some trusted hospitals and labs for DNA testing:
| Provider | Location | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Synlab Nigeria | Lagos, Abuja | Legal & private tests |
| Smart DNA Nigeria | Lagos | Home kits & prenatal tests |
| DNA Centre Nigeria | Lagos, PH | Immigration DNA tests |
| Medbury Medical Services | Abuja | Court-certified tests |
| UNTH Enugu | Enugu | Hospital-based DNA |
| UCH Ibadan | Oyo State | Paternity tests |
| NIMR DNA Lab | Lagos | Legal and peace-of-mind |
FAQs on DNA Test Cost in Nigeria 2025
How much is paternity test in Nigeria in 2025?
Paternity test costs between ₦70,000 and ₦150,000, depending on the lab and location.
Can DNA test be done in government hospitals in Nigeria?
Yes, some teaching hospitals like UCH, UNTH, and LUTH offer DNA testing, though turnaround time may be longer.
Is DNA test admissible in Nigerian court?
Only legal DNA tests with proper documentation are admissible in court cases.
How accurate is DNA test in Nigeria?
DNA tests in certified labs are 99.99% accurate when done properly.
Can a DNA test be done without the mother's consent?
Yes, but including the mother’s sample can improve accuracy and reduce inconclusive results.
Do Nigerian embassies accept DNA test for immigration?
Yes, but only if done through approved labs and with embassy documentation.
Is blood needed for a DNA test?
Most labs use buccal swabs (cheek cells), but blood samples can also be used.
Final Thoughts: How Much Is DNA Test in Nigerian Hospitals 2025?
The cost of DNA test in Nigeria 2025 varies based on test type, location, and provider with prices ranging from ₦70,000 to ₦600,000. Whether you’re doing a personal paternity test, a court-ordered legal test, or preparing for immigration, there’s an option that fits your need and budget.
Always ensure you use reputable labs or hospitals, and clarify whether your test result needs to be legally valid or just for peace of mind. With the rise of home kits and nationwide lab networks, DNA testing in Nigeria is now more accessible and confidential than ever.