As part of measures to ensure a healthy population and prevent birthing children with underlying health conditions like sickle cell anaemia, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis, the Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has officially signed the Kano State Premarital Health Screening Bill into law.
The law, which requires pre-marital health screening for all prospective couples, prescribed five years’ imprisonment or a N500,000 fine, or both for violators.
In a statement on Tuesday by the governor’s spokesperson, Dawakin Tofa, the law is meant to enhance the health status of the state.
The governor stated, “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 law specifies that any individual found in violation of its provisions commits an offence and, upon conviction, may face a fine of up to N500,000, imprisonment for a minimum of five years, or both.”
Speaking on the implementation of the law, Governor Yusuf emphasized that it would help to uphold the sanctity of marriages in the state and ensure the birth of healthy children, free from preventable illnesses.
He added, “Upon approval by the state House of Assembly and endorsement by the Kano State governor, the law was signed on May 6, 2024, and will come into effect on May 13, 2024.
“It is mandated by the law that any individual intending to marry must undergo testing for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, genotype, and any other relevant tests before marriage.
“Furthermore, the law prohibits the formalisation of any marriage contract for individuals planning to marry without presenting a test certificate from a government-approved health facility.”
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