In a groundbreaking event, the Kebbi State Government orchestrated a mass wedding, uniting 300 couples consisting of divorcees, widows, and indigents. The ceremony, which unfolded at the Abdullahi Fodio palace in Gwandu Emirate, Birnin Kebbi, was made possible through the endeavors of Hajia Nafisa Nasir Idris, wife of the state governor, and her Nafisa Nasir Development Foundation, NANAS.
Governor Nasir Idris, presiding over the ceremony, imparted advice to the couples, emphasizing the significance of friendship and mutual support in their marital journey. He disclosed that the government allocated N21 million as dowry for the 300 brides hailing from the 21 local government areas, with each bride receiving a dowry of N70,000. Additionally, the administration provided furniture and foodstuffs to all the couples to fortify their new beginnings.
With careful consideration of Islamic traditions, the governor highlighted the importance of marriage in creating a thriving society and urged the couples to honor and uphold the sanctity of marriage. He commended his wife for her unwavering dedication in realizing this unprecedented mass wedding, foreseeing a decrease in divorce rates and a surge in matrimonial opportunities for the underprivileged.
In her remarks, Hajia Nafisa expressed profound gratitude to her husband for his moral and material backing, underscoring the foundation’s commitment to providing the couples with skills training for self-reliance. She emphasized that all couples underwent comprehensive health screenings before the wedding, ensuring their well-being.
The chairman of the organizing committee, Alhaji Suleiman Argungu, announced that the selection of the 300 couples adhered to Islamic jurisprudence, ensuring a principled approach to the union. Esteemed Islamic scholars enlightened the audience on the prophetic teachings concerning marital relationships, while offering prayers for the success of the mass wedding, lauding its impact on societal morality.
The Emir of Gwandu, Muhammad Iliyasu Bashar, acted as the Guardian to the brides, officiating the marriages and bestowing his blessings upon the couples for a harmonious married life.
This landmark event not only symbolizes the coming together of hearts but also signifies a concerted effort to uplift and empower the community, setting a precedent for compassion and solidarity.
