Celebrando 50 años de matrimonio en la “capital del divorcio” de Nigeria

In Nigeria’s “divorce capital,” a couple recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, attracting praise for their lasting marriage. Mahmud Kabir Yakasai and Rabiatu Tahir shared the secrets of their happiness with the BBC, shedding light on why many marriages fail in the northern city of Kano. Mr. Yakasai credits his wife’s generosity for their successful marriage, noting that her unselfish nature has been key to their long-lasting union. Mrs. Tahir, in turn, appreciates her husband’s patience and calm demeanor, emphasizing the importance of mutual love and respect in their relationship.

The couple, who have 13 children together, clearly enjoy each other’s company, laughing and smiling throughout the interview. Their enduring love serves as an inspiration for others, including divorcee Hassana Mahmud, who has been married five times and admires the couple’s contentment. She hopes to see a shift in the high divorce rates that have earned Kano the title of “divorce capital of Nigeria.”

The prevalence of separations in Kano has raised concerns, prompting initiatives like mass marriages organized by the Hisbah to provide support for struggling couples. Despite efforts to address the issue, divorce rates remain high due to various factors, including economic challenges and cultural norms surrounding marriage and divorce in the region.

Matchmaking plays a significant role in Kano, where single individuals often rely on intermediaries to find suitable partners. Successful matches are based on thorough investigations and knowledge of the individuals involved, ensuring compatibility before marriage. The expertise of matchmakers like Rabiu Ado, known as “Mai Dalili” or “He who makes it happen,” helps facilitate successful marriages by understanding the attitudes and expectations of clients seeking life partners.

A menudo los hombres quieren una mujer que pueda hacer dinero y las mujeres quieren hombres ricos.

“Muchas personas entran en matrimonios con la mentalidad equivocada, por eso se decepcionan después de algún tiempo”.

Él dice que ha organizado alrededor de 500 matrimonios en la última década, con una tasa de éxito de más del 90%.

Aconseja a las parejas que siempre se tomen el tiempo de conocerse bien antes de casarse.

El Sr. Ado, quien tiene el apodo de “Mai Dalili” que significa “Él que lo hace posible”, dice que el alto número de divorcios significa que algunas personas no se toman el matrimonio en serio.

“Siento que el motivo por el que el divorcio es alto en Kano es porque la gente siente que siempre puedo encontrar a otra persona después de un divorcio”.

Mahmud Kabir Yakasai y Rabiatu Tahir se conocieron durante 12 años antes de casarse [Mahmud Kabir Yakasai]

El clérigo islámico Abdullahi Ishaq Garangamawa defiende la facilidad con la que los musulmanes pueden divorciarse.