From Mustapha Adamu, Kano
The Kano State Government has allocated N1.5 billion for a mass wedding programme aimed at supporting 1,500 couples across the state, as preparations for the exercise reach an advanced stage.
The Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, disclosed this on Monday during a press conference in Kano.
He said the initiative forms part of the state government’s social intervention programmes designed to assist low-income families, strengthen family values and promote stable marriages.
According to Daurawa, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf approved the funding in fulfilment of his administration’s commitment to supporting marriage institutions and enhancing social welfare in the state.
He explained that all prospective couples are currently undergoing mandatory medical screening, including tests for HIV, hepatitis, genotype compatibility and pregnancy, to ensure healthy and successful unions.
Daurawa revealed that each couple would receive a support package valued at N1 million, comprising household items such as beds, mattresses, bed sheets, pillows, cupboards and food supplies.
He added that each bride would receive N100,000 as start-up capital for small-scale businesses, while each groom would be given N100,000 to assist with the payment of dowries.
“Mass wedding is one of the promises made to the people by His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and he has now fulfilled it,” Daurawa said.
He noted that the support package was designed to help beneficiaries begin married life on a solid foundation through the provision of furniture, food items and empowerment assistance.
The Hisbah Commander-General also announced a new guideline requiring beneficiaries to seek mediation through the Hisbah Board before initiating divorce proceedings.
He emphasized the importance of genotype screening before marriage, warning that incompatible genotypes could result in children being born with sickle cell disorder.
Daurawa stated that all arrangements for the mass wedding ceremony had been completed and that the Hisbah Board was awaiting Governor Yusuf’s official announcement of the date for the event.
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