A new law in Kano State has sparked mixed reactions. The Kano Mandatory Premarital Law requires intending couples to undergo premarital medical screening before tying the knot.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf signed the law, aiming to promote healthier marriages and the birth of healthy children in the state. Under the new legislation, couples must present certificates proving they have been screened for conditions like sickle cell anemia, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B and C, and other relevant illnesses.
Governor Yusuf emphasized the importance of implementing the law faithfully to ensure the well-being of future generations. This initiative aligns with his commitment to improving healthcare access in Kano and reducing the prevalence of preventable diseases.
The law protects individuals living with these conditions from discrimination or stigma. However, it also prohibits formalizing any marriage contract without a test certificate from a government-approved health facility.
Violators face penalties of up to N500,000 in fines, a minimum of five years imprisonment, or both. While some see this as a necessary step towards a healthier future, others raise concerns about potential social implications.