The Kano State Government has concluded plans to sponsor a mass wedding for 1,500 couples, with a total budget of ₦1.5 billion set aside for the initiative aimed at supporting marriage and family development across the state.
The Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Corps, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, disclosed this while addressing journalists in Kano on Monday. He explained that preparations for the programme are already at an advanced stage, with intending couples currently undergoing premarital medical screenings.
According to Daurawa, the tests include HIV, hepatitis, pregnancy, genotype and other health checks designed to ensure the wellbeing of the couples before marriage. He stressed the importance of genotype testing to help prevent the birth of children affected by sickle cell anaemia.
The Hisbah Commander-General revealed that approximately ₦1 million would be spent on each couple. The package includes household essentials such as beds, mattresses, bedsheets, pillows, furniture and food items to help the newlyweds establish stable homes.
In addition, each bride will receive a dowry of ₦100,000, while another ₦100,000 will be provided as startup capital to encourage small-scale business ventures after the wedding.
Daurawa noted that the mass wedding initiative was one of the campaign promises made by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and described the programme as a fulfillment of that commitment. He said the governor had approved the funds to support the couples through marriage and economic empowerment.
He also disclosed that the Hisbah Corps has advised participants against seeking divorce without first involving the Hisbah Board for mediation and guidance.
The date for the mass wedding ceremony has not yet been announced, as officials are awaiting final approval from Governor Yusuf before making it public.
