Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has said the use of public funds to support marriage ceremonies can be permissible under Islamic law, provided such spending serves a legitimate public interest.
Mr Gumi made the remarks while discussing the growing challenges of marriage among young people and the role governments and communities can play in reducing the financial burden associated with starting families.
According to him, helping young people get married can contribute to social stability and help address problems associated with poverty, unemployment and the breakdown of family structures.
He argued that, under Shariah principles, public resources may be deployed for purposes that advance the welfare of society, particularly where such intervention addresses a recognised social need.
The cleric said supporting marriage should not necessarily be viewed as an inappropriate use of public funds if the expenditure is transparent, properly administered and directed towards benefiting members of the wider community.
His comments are likely to generate debate over the extent to which government resources should be used to support religious or social programmes, particularly in a country where public spending is subject to increasing scrutiny.
Nigeria’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion, while the country operates a secular federal system. However, several northern states have adopted aspects of Islamic law alongside the conventional legal system.
Mr Gumi has previously spoken extensively on issues affecting northern Nigeria, including insecurity, poverty, education and the welfare of young people.
His latest comments come amid growing calls for practical measures to make marriage more affordable for young Nigerians, many of whom face rising living costs and limited economic opportunities.
