The Kebbi State Government has concluded arrangements to sponsor 300 couples in the third edition of its mass wedding programme.
Chairman of the Mass Wedding Committee, Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Argungu, disclosed this while briefing journalists on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi.
He said the beneficiaries were selected from the state’s 21 local government areas and 225 wards following a screening exercise.
According to Argungu, the initiative, organised by the state government in partnership with the NANAS Foundation, established by the wife of Governor Nasir Idris, is open to all eligible indigenes irrespective of ethnic or religious affiliation.
He said each groom would receive N250,000 as dowry in line with Islamic law, while all prospective couples would undergo compulsory medical screening to assess their health status and compatibility.
Argungu added that local government committees had also been directed to verify that each groom has a reliable source of income capable of supporting a family.
He said the wedding ceremony would be held in Birnin Kebbi in the presence of Governor Nasir Idris, Islamic clerics and other dignitaries.
According to him, the NANAS Foundation will provide beds, mattresses, food items and other household essentials to enable the couples to begin their married lives.
He added that a monitoring committee had been established to oversee the welfare of the newlyweds after the ceremony and ensure the proper use of the items provided.
