Kano State Government joined 1,500 couples in a mass wedding ceremony on Friday at the Emir’s Palace, a symbolic event that included a man whose family was killed in a murder case months earlier.
Kano Chief Imam Professor Sani Zahradeen officiated the ceremony. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf stood as representative for the grooms, while the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, represented the brides.
Among the couples was Haruna Bashir, who lost his wife and six children in a violent attack. Hisbah Board Commander-General Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim-Daurawa confirmed Bashir’s participation and detailed the government’s support package. Beyond the wedding, the governor sponsored Bashir’s Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, provided a house in Amana City, and arranged his marriage to Rahinatu Jamilu-Yunusa.
“Since the incident that led to the death of his wife and six children, he doesn’t talk to anyone,” Ibrahim-Daurawa said. “But with this development, he is now bouncing back to normal life.”
Two other couples were highlighted in the symbolic ceremony: Saminu Tijjani-Isa with A’isha Muazu-Muhammad, and Khalifa Muhammad-Inuwa with Maimuna Muhammad-Mu’azu.
Governor Yusuf described the programme as a bold social intervention aimed at restoring hope, strengthening families, and promoting moral values. He said it reflects his administration’s commitment to supporting vulnerable citizens by reducing the financial burden of marriage and enabling dignified family life in accordance with Islamic principles and Kano’s cultural heritage.
Earlier, Emir Sanusi delivered the Friday sermon, urging the newlyweds to build their homes on faith, patience, mutual respect, and compassion. He said peaceful families form the foundation of a stable and prosperous society.
Islamic scholars addressed marital responsibilities during the event. Sheikh Aliyu Abubakar spoke on the wisdom of marriage in Islam, Professor Ibrahim Mu’azzam-Mai-Bushira discussed spousal rights and responsibilities, and Sheikh Muhammad Nur-Arzai offered guidance on resolving marital conflicts through Islamic teachings.
Each bride received ₦200,000 for dowry and business start-up capital, along with household items including a bed and mattress, blankets, bed sheets, and a centre rug.
The mass wedding marks the second such initiative under Governor Yusuf’s administration, with additional ceremonies conducted simultaneously across local government areas.
