Emir of Zazzau urges Nigerians to reject extravagant wedding spending amid economic hardship
Emir of Zazzau Ahmed Bamalli criticized extravagant Nigerian wedding spending during the 20th anniversary of the Crystal Muslim Organisation (CMO) in Abuja yesterday, specifically calling out families spending up to $10,000 on bridal makeup and N200,000-N300,000 on aso-ebi fabrics as "totally unacceptable" amid Nigeria's deepening cost-of-living crisis. His remarks come as millions struggle to feed themselves while wedding ceremonies grow increasingly elaborate. He urged families to redirect wedding funds toward supporting the less privileged and fostering self-reliance, citing Thai citizens' modest wedding practices that enable families to build wealth through skills acquired before marriage. During his time as Nigerian envoy to Thailand, he noted graduates learn practical skills to generate income from home to support their families. The emir shared that he personally never spends on aso-ebi or bridal cosmetics for family weddings, stating such choices remain individual family decisions but refusing to participate financially. He specifically challenged Nigerians to emulate Thailand's approach where education includes practical skills for self-sufficiency post-marriage. With recent revelations from TikTokers Habeeb "Peller" Hamzat and Amadou "Jarvis" Elizabeth showing aso-ebi pricing at N350,000 for four yards, N700,000 for eight yards, and N1 million for twelve yards, the emir's call prompts a critical question: In an era where many Nigerians cannot afford three square meals daily, does extravagant wedding spending truly strengthen families and communities, or does it exacerbate societal divisions and financial strain?