Kano Approves N1.5bn for Mass Wedding of 1,500 Couples

The Kano State Government has approved N1.5 billion for the conduct of a mass wedding programme for 1,500 couples across the state as preparations for the exercise reach the final stage.

The Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, disclosed this during a press conference in Kano.

Daurawa said the initiative was part of the administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf aimed at supporting low-income families, promoting stable marriages and strengthening family values in the state.

He explained that prospective beneficiaries were currently undergoing mandatory medical screening, including tests for HIV, hepatitis, genotype compatibility and pregnancy, to ensure healthy and successful unions.

According to him, each couple will receive a support package valued at N1 million, consisting of household items such as beds, mattresses, bed sheets, pillows, cupboards and food supplies.

He added that every bride would be given N100,000 as start-up capital to support small-scale businesses, while each groom would receive N100,000 to assist with the payment of marriage dowries.

Daurawa said the mass wedding programme fulfilled one of the promises made by Governor Yusuf to the people of Kano State.

“The governor has provided 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,” he said.

The Hisbah Commander-General also announced a new guideline requiring beneficiaries of the programme to seek mediation through the Hisbah Board before initiating divorce proceedings.

He stressed the importance of genotype screening before marriage, warning that incompatibility could result in children being born with sickle cell disorder.

Daurawa further disclosed that arrangements for the mass wedding ceremony had been completed and that the Hisbah Board was awaiting the governor’s official announcement of the event date.