The Kano State Hisbah Board has announced the commencement of mandatory medical screening for 3,000 prospective couples (1,500 men and 1,500 women) as part of preparations for a major mass wedding initiative organized by the Kano State Government under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The screening exercise, which includes tests for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, genotype compatibility, and drug screening, aims to ascertain the health status of all participants before the marriages are conducted. Participation in the medical screening is compulsory, and any prospective couple that fails to undergo the process will be disqualified from the programme.
The mass wedding is designed to support vulnerable members of society, particularly widows, divorcees, and spinsters from less-privileged backgrounds. By facilitating these unions, the state government seeks to promote social stability, reduce vulnerabilities, and address certain societal challenges in Kano State.
This initiative builds on the success of previous editions first introduced during the administration of former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. The current administration has committed to sustaining and expanding the programme as a key social welfare intervention.
Speaking on the development, Deputy Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Sheikh Mujahedeen Aminudeen, emphasized the importance of the screening process and highlighted the support package for beneficiaries.
“Each bride is expected to receive a set of beds with mattresses and pillows, as well as N100,000 cash to start up a business of her own after collecting N100,000 dowry from the government,” Sheikh Aminudeen stated.
The government will cover the dowry (N100,000 per bride) and provide essential startup items to help the new couples establish a stable family life.
Further details regarding the exact dates for the screening exercise and the mass wedding ceremony will be communicated to the public in due course.
The Kano State Government remains committed to initiatives that uplift the less privileged, strengthen family institutions, and foster a more harmonious society.