The Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, on Monday, assented to the Kano State Premarital Health Screening Bill, thereby making it a law mandating premarital health screening for all prospective couples.
The governor noted that the law prescribed five years’ imprisonment or N500,000 fine or both for violators.
A statement on Tuesday by the governor’s spokesperson, Dawakin Tofa, said the law aimed to reduce the likelihood of children being born with underlying health issues such as sickle cell anaemia, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis.
“As per the new law, no wedding will be permitted in Kano without the presentation of a health screening certificate for genotype, hepatitis B and C, HIV/AIDS, and other related illnesses.
This initiative aligns with the governor’s commitment to enhancing and providing a conducive environment for the healthcare sector, aiming to make Kano free from or significantly reduce health challenges.
“The law necessitates mandatory testing for HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, genotype, and other relevant examinations before marriage. It also prohibits any discrimination or stigmatisation against individuals living with HIV/AIDS, sickle cell anaemia, hepatitis, and related conditions,” the statement read.
