N7.5 Million Initial Deposit Set as Jigawa Kicks Off 2027 Hajj Sign-ups

The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has officially commenced registration for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage, stipulating an initial deposit of N7.5 million for prospective pilgrims. The board issued a warning that the registration period will conclude in just 87 days. This development signifies an early start to preparations for the forthcoming holy journey, informed by lessons learned from the immediate past 2026 Hajj exercise. It also aligns with directives from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and Saudi authorities, who are advocating for more timely and structured planning.

Ahmed Labbo, the Director General of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, shared this information on Wednesday during a meeting with zonal officers from the state's 27 local government areas, held at the board’s headquarters in Dutse. Labbo explained that the N7.5 million initial payment was introduced to enable intending pilgrims to secure their slots early and avoid any last-minute rush. He confirmed, “We have commenced the initial deposit of seven and a half million Naira for the 2027 Hajj exercise.”

However, the Director General emphasized the urgency of the timeline provided by Saudi Arabia for swift Hajj preparations. According to him, only 87 days remain for registration because the Kingdom has designated 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,” Labbo clarified, urging residents to act promptly.

Labbo further instructed the board’s zonal officers to intensify their mobilisation efforts across all 27 LGAs. The DG called on these officers to ensure that every allocated Hajj 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 stated that early deposits and registration would facilitate better planning for logistics, accommodation, and feeding in the Holy Land. Labbo stressed, “We expects intending pilgrims to register early, complete payments, and prepare ahead for a hitch-free 2027 pilgrimage.” He recalled that the 2026 Hajj exercise encountered challenges stemming from late payments and incomplete documentation, adding that, “The board is determined not to repeat the same mistakes in 2027.”

The Director General also extended his appreciation to Governor Umar Namadi for his consistent support to the board, noting that “the governor’s support has been key to smooth Hajj operations in Jigawa over the years.” Labbo expressed, “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.”