Nigerian Minister Hosts 9 Children's Weddings in One Day

When Bello Matawalle looks out at his family on February 6, he'll see something most parents can only imagine: nine of his children getting married in a single ceremony.

The Nigerian Minister of State for Defence and former Zamfara State Governor is hosting the extraordinary event at Abuja's Central Mosque. The joint wedding brings together his sons and daughters in a celebration that reflects both practicality and family unity.

Among the couples, Nana Bello Matawalle will marry former Zamfara State House of Assembly Speaker Nasiru Mu'azu Magarya. Ibrahim Sahabi Liman will wed Farida Bello Matawalle, while Safiya Bello Matawalle joins with Yazid Shehu Dan Fulani. Aisha Bello Matawalle rounds out the known brides, marrying Umar Ibrahim Danmaliki.

The minister, married to four wives named Aisha, Balkisu, Fatima, and Dadiya, sent invitations through family representative Dan Jafaru Aleengoo Turakee. Individual wedding cards later revealed the names of couples participating in the ceremony.

Joint weddings aren't uncommon in Nigerian culture, where large families often combine ceremonies to strengthen bonds and share joy. The practice helps families celebrate together while managing the logistics of multiple weddings.

Sunny's Take

This story reminds us that love multiplies in the most beautiful ways. While Western traditions often spotlight individual couples, this Nigerian family shows how celebrations can bring everyone closer together. Nine separate wedding days would mean nine chances for family members to travel, take time off work, and coordinate schedules. Instead, the Matawalle family chose connection over convention.

The ceremony is expected to draw prominent figures from across Nigeria, turning a family milestone into a community celebration. Friends, political colleagues, and well-wishers will witness not just marriages, but a testament to family planning in its most joyful sense.

For parents who've juggled even two kids' schedules, imagine coordinating nine weddings. The Matawalle family found their solution: one unforgettable day when everyone they love gathers in one place to celebrate nine new beginnings at once.