In Kano State, a new law signed by Governor Abba Yusuf mandates premarital health screenings for all prospective couples. The law aims to ensure the birth of healthy offspring and uphold the sanctity of marriages in the state.
Under this law, no wedding will be allowed without the presentation of a health screening certificate, including tests for genotype, hepatitis B and C, HIV/AIDS, and other related conditions. This requirement is designed to reduce the risk of children being born with preventable illnesses like sickle cell anaemia, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis.
The initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to improving healthcare and creating a healthier environment for its citizens. It emphasizes the importance of proactive measures in healthcare, aiming to make Kano free from or significantly reduce health challenges.
The law mandates mandatory testing for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, genotype, and other relevant examinations before marriage. It also prohibits discrimination or stigmatization against individuals living with these conditions.
Individuals intending to marry must undergo testing at a government-approved health facility, and marriage contracts cannot be formalized without presenting a valid test certificate. Violation of the law may result in penalties such as fines of up to ₦500,000 or imprisonment for a minimum of five years, or both.
