Kano approves N1.5bn for 1,500-couple mass wedding

From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

The Kano State Government has allocated N1.5 billion for the conduct of a mass wedding programme targeting 1,500 couples across the state, as preparations for the exercise enter the final stage.
The initiative, one of the state government’s flagship social intervention programmes, is designed to support low-income families, promote stable marriages and strengthen family values in Kano State.
The Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, disclosed this on Monday during a special press conference in Kano.
Daurawa said the programme reflects the commitment of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to supporting marriage institutions and enhancing social welfare across the state.
According to him, all prospective couples are currently undergoing mandatory medical screening, including tests for HIV, hepatitis, genotype compatibility and pregnancy, among other health assessments, to ensure healthy and successful unions.
He revealed that each couple would receive a support package worth N1 million, covering essential household items such as beds, mattresses, bed sheets, pillows, cupboards and food supplies.
In addition, each bride will be provided with N100,000 as start-up capital to support small-scale businesses, while each groom will receive N100,000 to assist with the payment of marriage 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 stated.
“He has provided the sum of N1.5 billion for 1,500 beneficiaries. The support package includes furniture, food items and empowerment assistance aimed at helping couples begin married life on a solid foundation.”
The Hisbah Commander-General also announced a new guideline for beneficiaries of the programme, stating that couples would be required to seek mediation through the Hisbah Board before initiating divorce proceedings.
He stressed the importance of genotype screening before marriage, warning that incompatibility could lead to children being born with sickle cell disorder.
Daurawa noted that all arrangements for the mass wedding ceremony have been concluded, adding that the Hisbah Board is awaiting Governor Yusuf’s official announcement of the event date.