Jigawa initiates sign-up process for 2027 Hajj pilgrimage, sets initial payment at N7.5 million

Jigawa State has commenced preparations for the 2027 Hajj, with the Pilgrims Welfare Board announcing an initial deposit of N7.5 million for intending pilgrims, while also warning that the registration window will close in just 87 days.

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This early start is a response to lessons learned from the 2026 Hajj exercise and aligns with directives from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, and the Saudi authorities, who are pushing for faster and more organised planning ahead of time.

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

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Labbo stated that the board has inaugurated the N7.5 million initial deposit to enable intending pilgrims to secure their seats early and avoid last-minute rush, saying "We have commenced the initial deposit of seven and a half million Naira for the 2027 Hajj exercise".

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The DG stressed the urgency of the timeline given by Saudi Arabia for speedy preparation of the Hajj exercise, with only 87 days remaining for registration, as the Kingdom has fixed September as the global deadline for all intending pilgrims.

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According to Labbo, "The National Hajj and Umrah authorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have set a closing date for registration in September for pilgrims worldwide", and he urged residents to act quickly.

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Labbo directed the zonal officers of the board to step up mobilisation across all 27 LGAs, calling on them to ensure every allocated seat is filled and that communities are fully sensitised before the deadline arrives.

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

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Labbo said early deposit and registration will help the board plan better logistics, accommodation, and feeding in the Holy Land, expecting intending pilgrims to register early, complete payments, and prepare ahead for a hitch-free 2027 pilgrimage.

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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".

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Labbo 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".

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He expressed his appreciation to the Governor of Jigawa State, saying "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".