Kano mass wedding: Hisbah begins HIV, pregnancy tests for 3,000 prospective couples

The Kano State Hisbah Board is set to begin medical screening for prospective participants in the state-backed mass wedding programme that will bring together 3,000 couples.

The Board’s Deputy Commander General, Mujahideen Aminudddeen, disclosed on Sunday that intending couples from 24 local government areas are expected to report to their respective Hisbah offices on Monday for the screening exercise.

The affected local government areas are Rogo, Wudil, Tudun Wada, Warawa, Kibiya, Dawakin Tofa, Garun Malam, Kura, Dambatta, Karaye, Tsanyawa, Minjibir, Rimin Gado, Shanono, Kabo, Tofa, Rano, Bebeji, Ajingi, Gwarzo, Sumaila, Kiru, Takai and Madobi.

According to Aminudddeen, the screening will include tests for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, genotype compatibility, drug use and pregnancy for female applicants.

He noted that only candidates who successfully complete and pass the medical screening would be eligible to take part in the mass wedding programme.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf had earlier announced plans to sponsor the marriage of 1,500 men and 1,500 women across the state. The beneficiaries are expected to be drawn largely from widows, divorcees, orphans and other low-income residents.

Under the initiative, each groom will receive ₦100,000 as support for dowry payments. Couples will also be provided with household essentials, including beds, mattresses, wardrobes and food items.

The state government further disclosed that beneficiaries would receive grants of ₦100,000 each to establish small businesses.

Organised by the Hisbah Board, the programme is designed to strengthen social stability, ease economic challenges and support family development across Kano State.

Although the initiative has received widespread commendation, some observers have expressed concerns regarding its sustainability and long-term effectiveness.

The state government, however, maintains that participation in the programme remains voluntary and is based on mutual consent.