Why Kano govt spent N1.5bn on mass wedding – Gov Yusuf

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has revealed that the state government allocated more than N1.5 billion to the 2026 mass wedding programme, known as Auren Gata, as a commitment to fulfill a campaign promise and to provide comprehensive support to 1,500 newlywed couples. The governor outlined the programme during a ceremony for the 1,500 couples, stating it aimed to offer not just marriage assistance, but also social, economic and household support.

Yusuf mentioned this during the event, held on Saturday, in Kano. He emphasized that the programme was one of his campaign pledges during the 2023 general elections across the state's 44 local government areas. "Alhamdulillah, to the glory of Allah, today we have continued to fulfil that promise," Yusuf declared, highlighting the comprehensive screening process for prospective couples, which included medical examinations, marriage counselling, and workshops for preparation.

The governor disclosed that each bride received N100,000 as dowry, another N100,000 as a capital grant for starting a small business, along with household furniture, essential items, and food items to ease the financial burden of starting a new home. Yusuf urged the newlyweds to view marriage as an act of worship and conduct their homes in accordance with the teachings of the Qur'an and Sunnah, emphasizing patience, fairness, and mutual respect in their relationships.

He prayed for Allah's blessing on the marriages, hoping for righteous children who would benefit families, society, and humanity. The governor also thanked traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, and other guests for their contributions to the program's success.