Kano State Governor Abba Kabir-Yusuf says his administration has spent N1.5 billion on the state’s mass wedding programme, covering medical screening, dowry, furniture, food and other support for the couples.
Yusuf disclosed this on Saturday at a reception and distribution of furniture and other items to the newly married couples at the Kano State Government House.
He said the government had invested more than N1.5 billion to ensure the programme’s success and support the couples.
“This expenditure covered medical screening for all the brides and grooms to safeguard their health and that of their future children.
“Similarly, we provided the payment of N100,000 as dowry, in addition to another N100,000 as capital grant to serve as seed capital for starting a business and promoting self-reliance.
“We also provided household furniture and essential items, including beds, mattresses, and other necessities to enable the couples to begin their married lives comfortably.
“Government has also provided food items and other essential commodities to cushion the hardship they may encounter during the early days of their marriage,” he said.
The governor urged the couples to promote peace, harmony, respect and understanding in their homes. He reminded them that marriage “is an act of worship” and urged them to follow the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Yusuf said Auren Gata was one of his major campaign promises ahead of the 2023 elections. He said couples underwent medical checks, counselling, workshops and seminars before the ceremony.
Northwest Governors’ Forum Chairman Umar Dikko-Radda praised the initiative, while Sheikh Kabir Gombe, representing Sheikh Abdullahi Bala-Lau, said it could help tackle insecurity and protests by idle youths.
NAN reports that Jigawa Governor Umar Namadi and former Kano Governor Ibrahim Shekarau were among those present.
