Jigawa sets ₦7.5m initial Hajj fare deposit for 2027 pilgrims

The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has already started its preparation for the 2027 Hajj as it has announced an initial deposit of N7.5 million for intending pilgrims.

It has been reported that intending pilgrims have 87 days to register their names and that the period of registration will end when the set deadline comes to an end.

This has happened earlier to ensure smooth planning in light of experience gained in the 2026 Hajj exercise.

The board has called upon intending residents to make use of the period of registration by paying the required initial deposit and completing their documents before the expiry of the deadline.

It will be recalled that the announcement has come in line with the directive issued by NAHCON and the Saudi government to plan earlier in view of the need to organize everything well in advance.

Ahmed Labbo, Director General of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, made this known during a meeting with the zonal officers of the board from the 27 local government areas at the board’s headquarters in Dutse.

According to him, the N7.5 million initial deposit has been inaugurated to facilitate the securing of seats early for the intending pilgrims.

“We have commenced the initial deposit of seven and a half million Naira for the 2027 Hajj exercise,” Labbo stated.

However, the DG stressed the urgency of the timeline given by Saudi Arabia for speedy preparation of the Hajj exercise.

According to him, only 87 days remain for registration because the Kingdom has fixed September as the global deadline for all intending pilgrims.

“The National Hajj and Umrah authorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have set a closing date for registration in September for pilgrims worldwide,” he explained, urging residents to act quickly.

Labbo directed the zonal officers of the board to step up mobilisation across all 27 LGAs.

The DG called on the Z.Os to ensure every allocated seat is filled and that communities are fully sensitised before the deadline arrives.

“Be vigilant, ensure all hajj seats are filled, and actively sensitise the public about completing their registration before the deadline,” the DG charged the officers.

Speaking with our correspondent shortly after the meeting, Labbo said early deposit and registration will help the board plan better logistics, accommodation, and feeding in the Holy Land.

“We expects intending pilgrims to register early, complete payments, and prepare ahead for a hitch-free 2027 pilgrimage”, Labbo emphasised.

He recalled that the 2026 Hajj exercise came with challenges of late payments and incomplete documentation, saying that, “The board is determined not to repeat the same mistakes in 2027.”

The DG also praised Governor Umar Namadi for backing the board at every stage, adding that “the governor’s support has been key to smooth Hajj operations in Jigawa over the years.”

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Governor of Jigawa State, for the continuous maximum cooperation and support the board receives during every Hajj operation,” Labbo said.