Medical tests made mandatory to safeguard participants’ health
Preparations have begun in Kano State for a mass wedding involving more than 2,000 couples, following directives from Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The Deputy Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Sheikh Mujahid Aminudeen, confirmed on Thursday that registration and medical screening for all intending couples had commenced.
According to him, all participants must undergo compulsory tests for HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, genotype compatibility, and drug use. “Anyone who fails to complete the screening will not be allowed to participate,” he said.
Sheikh Aminudeen explained that the exercise aims to protect the health of participants and prevent future marital or genetic challenges.
Earlier in the year, the Kano State government earmarked ₦2.5 billion to support mass weddings under its 2025 fiscal plan. The Commissioner for Planning and Budget, Musa Sulaiman Shanono, stated that the funds would cover quarterly ceremonies across all 44 local government areas.
In a previous phase of the programme in 2023, over ₦800 million was spent on furniture, food items, and clothing for 1,800 couples. Each bride received a bed, mattress, pillows, and ₦20,000 to start a small business.
The Hisbah Commander, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, said clear criteria were used to select beneficiaries and warned that anyone who divorced after the wedding would be required to refund the state for the items provided.
He also revealed that several philanthropists and benefactors have pledged support to ensure the continued success of the initiative.
