The Zamfara State Zakat and Endowment Board has sponsored the marriages of 200 female orphans, equipping each bride with essential household items, such as furniture, bedding, and other start-up materials, as well as a ₦200,000 dowry to help them begin married life with dignity and stability.
Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Habib Balarabe Mohammed Zawiyya, announced the development during a mass wedding ceremony and distribution of empowerment packages held in Gusau, the state capital.
The event marked the final phase of the Board’s 2025 programmes, which also featured business grant disbursement, debt settlements, poultry farming training graduation, and completion of computer literacy courses.
Zawiyya emphasized the Board’s commitment to monitoring the couples to ensure they build peaceful and responsible homes.
He expressed delight that some beneficiaries from last year’s mass wedding returned with newborns, describing the development as encouraging and a testament to the programme’s impact.
The First Lady commended the Board’s Chairman, Sheikh Ahmad Ibn Umar Kanoma, and the Executive Secretary for their transparency and dedication, noting that the success of the initiatives reflects their strong leadership. She congratulated the new couples and prayed for harmonious and loving marriages.
During the ceremony, Zakat Board Chairman Sheikh Umar Kanoma served as guardian for the grooms, while the Emir of Anka represented the brides. Imam Isa Sherehu officiated the marriage rites and offered prayers for the newlyweds.
Malam Yakubu Gusau disclosed that all participants underwent comprehensive medical screenings, with 24 individuals identified with health concerns now receiving immediate treatment.
The colourful event attracted traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, families, and well-wishers from across Zamfara State.
