and how to tell lovers from fraudsters in Kano
The Kano state government in Nigeria sponsored a mass wedding for 1,500 couples, providing dowries and furniture to support low-income individuals. The event, overseen by the Islamic police force known as the Hisbah, aims to facilitate marriage for those who cannot afford the traditional costs.
Why it matters
The program illustrates the intersection of state-sponsored social welfare and religious tradition in Northern Nigeria.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Mansur Abubakar Abuja Getty Images All the new wedding outfits are paid for by the Kano state government Celebrations have turned the northern Nigerian city of Kano into a riot of colour and excitement over the last week as 1,500 couples married at a mass wedding.
For days the city's streets have been buzzing with bridal parties and their families preparing outfits and attending other organised events.
On Friday, brides in red hijabs with grooms in matching red hats and white robes went the palace of the Emir, the city's traditional Muslim leader, for the main ceremony where they officially became husband and wife.
The nuptials culminated on Saturday with a wedding breakfast hosted by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who offered his blessing to the newlyweds.
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