The Kano State Hisbah Board has clarified that its mass wedding programme is not exclusively for Muslims, confirming that eligible Christians are also welcome to participate. Deputy Commander Sheikh Mujahideen Aminuddeen made the announcement on Wednesday, July 1, while detailing the application criteria for the initiative.
Programme Open to All Faiths
According to Aminuddeen, the programme, known as Auren Gata (Marriage for the Privileged), is designed to assist individuals who cannot afford to get married. He told the News Agency of Nigeria that widows, widowers, divorcees, bachelors, and spinsters are eligible, regardless of whether they are Muslims or Christians.
He revealed that Christian couples have previously benefited from the scheme, noting that three Christian couples participated in the 2023 edition. Preparations are underway for another round, though it is too early to confirm if Christian couples will be among this year's beneficiaries.
Purpose of the Initiative
Aminuddeen explained that the initiative encourages marriage in line with Islamic teachings while helping those whose financial situations have delayed their wedding plans. He stated that the programme also aims to reduce what the board considers immoral behaviour by assisting people who cannot afford wedding expenses. Additionally, it seeks to discourage young women from street hawking to raise money for marriage.
The administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf prioritizes orphans and other vulnerable individuals in the selection process. Each applicant undergoes a screening and verification process before being chosen.
Government Funding and Screening
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the Kano state government approved N1.5 billion for a mass wedding programme targeting 3,000 couples. The initiative includes medical screening, dowries, furniture, food items, clothing materials, and N100,000 business support for each bride. The Hisbah Board stated that only applicants who pass the mandatory health screening would qualify.
Medical screening for 3,000 prospective couples has begun, testing for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B, genotype compatibility, drug use, and other health conditions. The board emphasized that only those who complete and pass the compulsory screening will be eligible for the government-sponsored wedding.
Divorce Rule for Mass Wedding Couples
The Hisbah Board also set a rule that couples in the government-sponsored mass wedding must seek its approval before pursuing divorce. A reconciliation committee will first attempt to resolve disputes before any separation is considered. The policy reflects the state's investment in supporting couples with dowries, business grants, and household items.
