Ibrahim Ibrahim
The Jigawa State Government has approved compulsory genotype testing for all intending couples before marriage across Jigawa State.
State Commissioner, Ministry of Information, Youth Sports and Culture, Alhaji Sagir Musa Ahmad, disclosed this while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the state executive Council meeting on Wednesday.
He said, the Council approval is part of the State Government’s commitment to improving public health outcomes and addressing the growing concerns surrounding sickle cell disease (SCD) within the State communities.
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Musa explained that the Council has directed the Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, to initiate legislative actions on compulsory genotype testing for intending couples before marriage and present certified medical reports before obtaining marriage clearance from religious institutions, traditional authorities, and civil marriage registries in the State.
According to him” the initiative is not meant to discourage marriage, but rather to empower citizens with the necessary health information to make responsible choices that ensure the well-being of their families”
The Council has also formed a committee to ensure adequate sensitisation across the state.
The Committee members include Commissioner of Justice – Chairman, Representative of the Office of the SSG as Secretary.
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Other committee members include Commissioner Information,Commissioner Health, Commissioner Women Affairs, DG Invest Jigawa – Member, Special Adviser on Ulama – Member, Special Adviser Chieftaincy Affairs, Representative of Ulama Representative of Imams, Representative of Sickle Cells Association.