By Sola Ojewusi
Nigeria’s political and social calendar glittered with elegance this past weekend as two wedding fatiha ceremonies—one in Kano and the other in Abuja—brought together a constellation of leaders, dignitaries, and well-wishers in a memorable celebration of love, tradition, and style.
Kano: The Sambo Family Celebration
In the historic city of Kano, the renowned Al-Furqan Mosque provided a majestic setting for the wedding of Abdullah Sambo, son of former Vice President Namadi Sambo, and the beautiful daughter of respected scholar, Prof. Abdullahi Umar.
Vice President Kashim Shettima arrived in graceful fashion, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and was warmly received by Kano’s Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, along with top officials and family members.
The ceremony itself, officiated by Sheikh Bashir Umar, was steeped in faith and tradition. After the symbolic N500,000 bride price, VP Shettima stood in for the bride’s father, while Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia represented the groom’s father.
Guests were treated to a visual feast of resplendent attires, with dignitaries, family, and Nollywood-style society figures donning rich brocades, flowing agbadas, and elegant hijabs in coordinated colours. The air was alive with joy, prayer, and the soft murmur of goodwill.
Among the distinguished faces were Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru; Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh; former Jigawa Governor, Sule Lamido; PDP National Chairman, Umar Iliya Damagun, and many more.
Abuja: The National Mosque Affair
Later in the day, the celebrations shifted to Abuja, where the National Mosque glowed with splendour for the wedding of Khalifa Ishaq Baffa Jibrin and Maryam Amani Yahaya.
Here too, VP Shettima was a central presence—this time personally giving out the bride to her new family, in a touching act that drew admiration from guests. The ceremony, solemnized by Dr. Muhammad Kabir Adam and fellow Imams, also featured the symbolic dowry of N500,000.
The Abuja reception sparkled with glamour, as the city’s high society turned out in stylish lace fabrics, jewel-toned geles, and immaculate kaftans, creating a kaleidoscope of colour and cultural pride.
The guest list was equally glittering: Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara, Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur of Borno, and scores of eminent personalities joined hundreds of friends and family in prayers and festivities.
Two Cities, One Story of Love
From Kano to Abuja, the weekend offered a glimpse into Nigeria’s rich traditions of marriage—where faith, family, and fashion blend seamlessly with statesmanship. It was a double celebration that showcased not only the joy of young couples beginning new lives together but also the beauty of solidarity among Nigeria’s leaders and communities.
Indeed, the ceremonies were more than weddings—they were national gatherings of elegance, love, and legacy.
Pictures Courtesy of Stanley Nkwocha, Office of the Vice President, FRN.
