The Kano State Government has commenced the screening of 1,500 couples ahead of its planned mass wedding programme, alongside the approval of ₦1.5 billion to fund the social intervention.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening family life, reducing poverty, and promoting stable marriages across the state.
The screening exercise is taking place in Kano, where prospective couples are undergoing mandatory medical checks, including HIV, hepatitis, genotype compatibility, and pregnancy tests.
The announcement of the funding was made on Monday by the Commander-General of the Hisbah Board, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, during a press briefing.
Daurawa said the initiative fulfils a campaign promise by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, adding that each of the 1,500 beneficiaries will receive support for household setup and basic needs.
According to him, “The mass wedding is one of the promises made by His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and he has fulfilled it. A total of ₦1.5 billion has been provided for 1,500 beneficiaries, with support for furniture, food items and empowerment.”
Each couple is expected to receive a package worth about ₦1 million, including household items such as beds, mattresses, cupboards, and foodstuffs.
In addition, brides will receive ₦100,000 as business support, while grooms will also get ₦100,000 to assist with marriage-related expenses.
Residents say the programme reflects both cultural tradition and a social welfare intervention aimed at supporting young couples and reducing economic pressure on families.
The state government says the initiative is part of efforts to promote stable homes and address social challenges linked to economic hardship.
With screening ongoing, the mass wedding ceremony is expected to be held at a date to be announced.