The Kano State Government has begun screening for intending couples that will be part of its 2026 Mass Wedding Ceremony Programme.
Kano is screening about 1,500 couples ahead of a state-sponsored Mass Wedding expected to take place sometime in June 2026, according to ChannelsTV.
The report highlighted that the state has set aside N1.5 billion for the 2026 mass wedding program.
Kano State Hisbah Board Director General Abba Sufi, remarked that the program will support the couple in starting their own family. He added that the scheme is also aimed at reducing out-of-marriage births in Kano State.
Sufi stressed that the program will make it difficult for the couple to divorce. Instead all divorce-related issues will be brought to the board which will undertake all necessary procedures to confirm the terms of the divorce.
Notably, the screening covers a range of medical examinations to ensure the couple’s compatibility and maturity. Some of the screenings include HIV, Genotype, and Hepatitis tests on the couple before marriage.
Historical records show that the state usually pays the brides’ dowries on the grooms’ behalf. The state also gives the couples beds, beddings, food, and clothes, among other things to start their family.
Reacting to this, many Nigerians have raised concerns and described the planned event as misplaced priority.
X user Youngichu stated that;
Misplaced priorities. Government responsibilities doesn’t include helping irresponsible people get married. If you can arrange your wedding, how will you manage your home? How will you train your children or they want to increase the number of out of school children and Almajiri?
Uzoelue Samuel said;
I will never make sense of this? A state should not be involved in the personal lives to people. Would the state also feed them after marrying for them? This is arrant nonsense.
Meanwhile, Ikechipablo argued that;
If you think about the economic issues of Nigeria this is not a bad idea , help people ready to settle down ,so that the poor economy does not destroy the institution of marriage .
