The Kano State Government has married off 1,500 widows and young women under its Mass Wedding Programme, an initiative the governor says is aimed at restoring hope and strengthening family institutions.
Governor Officiates at Emir's Palace
Governor Abba Yusuf officiated the ceremony held on Friday at the Emir of Kano's Palace, where he represented the first groom by formally seeking the bride's hand in marriage from Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, who accepted in line with Islamic injunctions.
The event was coordinated by the Kano State Hisbah Board, and the governor's spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday.
Government Support Package
As part of the support package, each groom receives 10 yards of shadda fabric, a cap, a bag of rice, and a jerrycan of cooking oil. Each bride receives N200,000 for dowry and business support, along with household items including a bed, mattress, wardrobe, dressing mirror, blankets, bed sheets, and a centre rug.
Governor Yusuf described the programme as a major social intervention designed to ease the financial burden associated with marriage and create opportunities for dignified family life.
Emir's Counsel to Couples
Emir Sanusi delivered the Friday sermon, urging the newlyweds to build their homes on faith, patience, mutual respect, and compassion. He emphasized that peaceful families are the foundation of a stable and prosperous society.
"Peaceful families remain the foundation of a stable and prosperous society. I urge every couple to uphold the virtues of understanding, tolerance and responsibility in their marriages," the emir said.
Screening and Counselling
The Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Aminu Daurawa, said all beneficiaries underwent thorough screening and counselling before the marriages were conducted. He assured that all religious and legal requirements were fulfilled.
"We ensured that all religious and legal requirements were fulfilled before the marriages were solemnised. The beneficiaries were properly screened and counselled to prepare them for successful family life," Daurawa said.
Beneficiaries Express Gratitude
The Chief Imam of Kano, Prof. Sani Zahraddeen, offered prayers for Allah's guidance, blessings, and lasting harmony in the homes of the newly married couples. Some beneficiaries expressed appreciation, describing the programme as a life-changing opportunity that enabled them to begin a new chapter with dignity and hope.
