In a remarkable act of love and empowerment, Rt. Hon. Dickson Tarkighir has facilitated the marriage of 26 couples under the Targarian Empowerment Foundation, providing each couple with N2 million to support their journey into matrimony and financial stability.
Recognizing that economic challenges often hinder sociocultural aspirations such as marriage, the lawmaker took a unique approach beyond his conventional legislative duties. While he has been active in proposing bills, motions, and securing federal jobs for constituents, Tarkighir saw the need for a direct intervention that addressed a long-standing request from many young people: financial support to get married and start a family.
“We needed a more systematic approach,” he explained. “So, I assembled a team to develop a template that would screen prospective couples based on their genotype, willingness to learn or deepen a skill, and a commitment to building a stable marital foundation.”
Initially, the initiative aimed to support 50 couples, each receiving N2 million. However, due to skepticism and concerns about the legitimacy of applicants’ intentions, the number was narrowed down to 26 genuinely committed couples from Makurdi and Guma. The selected couples underwent months of engagement, financial counseling, and bonding before proceeding with their traditional and religious marriage rites.
The grand wedding ceremony, timed just before the farming season to suit the predominantly agrarian community, was held in a beautifully decorated venue reflecting the spirit of love and best wishes.
Hon. Tarkighir emphasized that this initiative was not a one-time event but a commitment to making it an annual tradition. “This doesn’t stop us from exploring other avenues of intervention. Public service is about leadership and addressing challenges. That is why we seek office,” he stated.
With the successful launch of the mass wedding initiative, Hon. Tarkighir has not only supported young couples in love but has also set a precedent for combining legislative responsibility with grassroots empowerment.
