By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbi
In a bid to promote unity and stability among its citizens, the Kebbi State Government has approved the release of N54 million as dowry for 300 couples to be joined in a second mass marriage. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on February 27, 2025, at the Palace of the Emir of Gwandu, Birnin Kebbi.
According to Suleiman Muhammad Argungu, Chairman of the Main Committee for the Celebration and former deputy Governor of the state, the success of last year's mass wedding encouraged the government to repeat the same this year. "300 couples were joined as husbands and wives last year sponsored by Governor Nasir Idris organized by the NANAS Foundation of his wife, Hajiya Nafisa," Argungu said.
The government has also made arrangements to provide furniture, including beds, beddings, mattresses, and household utensils, to the newlywed couples. Screening Committees have been established in all 21 local government areas of the state to select suitable couples for the mass wedding.
Argungu explained that prospective grooms must be income earners with a suitable trade or job and shelter to accommodate their brides. He also noted that all couples would undergo blood tests and genotype screening, while prospective brides would undergo pregnancy tests to ensure they are pregnancy-free.
The mass wedding is open to couples from various religious faiths and political affiliations. As Argungu emphasized, "Couples would be selected among adherents of various Religious Faiths, and irrespective of political affiliation." This initiative is a significant step towards promoting unity and social cohesion in the state.
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