Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has signed the Kano State Premarital Health Screening Law, making premarital health screening mandatory for all prospective couples.
The law requires couples to undergo testing for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B and C, genotype, and other related illnesses before marriage. No wedding will be permitted in Kano without a health screening certificate.
The law aims to reduce the likelihood of children being born with underlying health issues and aligns with the governor’s commitment to enhancing the healthcare sector.
It also prohibits discrimination against individuals living with HIV/AIDS, sickle cell anemia, hepatitis, and related conditions.
The law was signed on May 6, 2024, and will come into effect on May 13, 2024. Violation of the law may result in a fine of up to N500,000 and/or a minimum of five years imprisonment.