Ayuba Sanusi
GOVERNOR Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has approved the release of N54 million as dowry for 300 couples to be married in the state’s second mass wedding.
The event is scheduled for 27 February 2025, at the Emir of Gwandu’s Palace in Birnin Kebbi.
Chairman of the main committee, former Deputy Governor Suleiman Muhammad Argungu, announced this during a press briefing in Birnin Kebbi on Sunday.
He was in company with the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Hon. Yakubu Ahmed Birnin Kebbi, and the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Musa Muhammad Tungulawa.
Argungu stated that the success of last year’s mass wedding, organised by the NANAS Foundation of the governor’s wife, Hajiya Nafisa, encouraged the government to sponsor another edition this year.
A total of 600 brides and grooms from less privileged backgrounds will be wedded under the government’s arrangement. 
Each couple will receive N180,000 as dowry, totalling N54 million, along with furniture, mattresses, beddings and household utensils.
“Screening committees have been established in all 21 local government areas to select eligible couples based on set criteria, prospective grooms must have a source of income and accommodation for their brides,” Argungu explained.
He further stated that all couples would undergo mandatory medical screening, including genotype tests, while prospective brides would be tested to ensure they are not pregnant.
Argungu, who is also the National Organising Secretary of the APC, emphasized that the selection process would be inclusive, accommodating adherents of various faiths and without political bias.
Journalists were later shown the room furniture acquired by the government for free distribution to the brides to enhance their new homes.
Eighteen-Eleven Media