The Kano State Government has finalised plans to conduct a mass wedding for 1,500 couples under its social welfare initiative, ‘Auren Gata’, aimed at supporting vulnerable residents.
Mujahideen Aminudeen, deputy commander-general of the Kano Hisbah Board, announced the development on Thursday. He stated that the initiative, led by Governor Abba Yusuf, seeks to promote social stability and assist individuals ready to start families.
According to Mr Aminudeen, the decision follows the success of previous editions, which encouraged the government to allocate more resources to sustain the programme. The governor has directed that all arrangements be completed by the end of May.
Prospective couples must follow due process, including obtaining endorsement from traditional leaders in their communities and expressing mutual consent to marry. Participants will also undergo medical screening for HIV, genotype, and other health checks. Pregnancy tests will be conducted on female applicants to safeguard their dignity and well-being.
Mr Aminudeen dismissed allegations that the board imposes marriages on participants, emphasising that involvement is entirely voluntary and based on mutual willingness.
