Nigeria, May 15 -- The Sokoto State House of Assembly has approved a new law that requires all couples planning to marry to undergo medical tests before tying the knot.

The bill was passed during a plenary session on Wednesday, following the submission of a report by the chairman of the health committee, Kabiru Dauda.

The new law says couples must be tested for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, sickle cell, genotype, and other related health conditions.

This step is meant to help people understand their health status and avoid future health issues that could affect their marriages and families.

The bill was first read in the House on April 16 and then forwarded to the health committee for review.

After careful consideration, lawmakers gave their ...