The Kano State Hisbah Board has said Christians are eligible to participate in the state's upcoming mass wedding programme alongside Muslims.
Deputy Commander of the board, Mujahideen Aminuddeen, said the initiative, known as *Auren Gata* (marriage for the privileged), is open to all qualified couples regardless of religion. He noted that three Christian couples took part in the previous edition held in October 2023.
Speaking in Kano, Aminuddeen said preparations for the next exercise are ongoing, although it is too early to confirm whether any Christian couples have applied.
He explained that the programme is designed for widows, widowers, divorcees, spinsters and bachelors who cannot afford the cost of marriage.
According to him, the initiative aims to strengthen families, support vulnerable residents and address social challenges linked to delayed marriages.
He added that the programme aligns with Islamic teachings encouraging marriage and family life while also helping to reduce street hawking among young women seeking money for marriage expenses.
Aminuddeen said the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is giving priority to orphans and families with limited financial means. He added that all beneficiaries undergo screening and verification before selection.
Residents and experts who spoke on the programme expressed mixed views.
Muhammad Lawan-Yakub described the initiative as a positive intervention that could strengthen families and improve social stability through counselling and post-marriage support.
Jamila Suraja said the programme has helped many vulnerable families but urged authorities to ensure beneficiaries are committed to building lasting marriages rather than seeking government assistance.
Another resident, Hassan Maikadara, said the scheme has created opportunities for people who want to marry but cannot afford the expenses.
Economist Abdulsalam Kani said the programme could contribute to poverty reduction if the promised empowerment packages are properly implemented. He argued that improving beneficiaries' livelihoods could help address one of the major causes of marital breakdown in northern Nigeria.
Sociologist Muhammad Hadi-Musa described the mass wedding as more than a ceremonial event, saying it has evolved into a social intervention that supports low-income families and promotes simpler, more affordable weddings.
He added that the initiative has encouraged discussions on responsible marriage while demonstrating the role of government in supporting family welfare.
The Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Aminu Daurawa, recently announced that the state government has set aside ₦1.5 billion for the next edition, which is expected to accommodate 1,500 couples.
According to Daurawa, about 5,000 people applied for the programme, with 3,000 beneficiaries—representing 1,500 couples—to be selected.
He said each groom will receive ₦100,000 as dowry for his bride, while each bride will receive ₦100,000 as business support. Beneficiaries will also receive household items, including beds, mattresses, furniture and food supplies.
Daurawa added that prospective couples are being screened for HIV, hepatitis B, pregnancy and genotype compatibility. He said the board will also verify that each groom has a source of income and suitable accommodation before approval.
He further stated that participants in the programme cannot divorce their spouses without the involvement of the Hisbah Board.
