Kano to spend N1.5bn on mass wedding

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

The Kano State Government has concluded plans to spend N1.5 billion for the mass wedding ceremony of 1,500 couples across the state.

The ceremony is being handled by the Hisbah Board of the state.

According to the Commander-General of Kano Hisbah Board, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, preparations for the mass wedding ceremony have entered the final stage.

He stated this during a Press Conference in Kano, on Monday.

He said the initiative remains one of Kano state government’s flagship on social intervention programmes, designed to support low-income families, promote stable marriages and strengthen family values in the state.

Daurawa further stated that the programme reflects the commitment of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration 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.”

The Hisbah boss further stated 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.

Daurawa said: “Mass wedding is one of the promises made to the people by His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and he has now fulfilled it.

“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.”

He 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.

Daurawa underscored the importance of genotype screening before marriage, warning that incompatibility could lead to children being born with sickle cell disorder.

He 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.