Following the declaration of Hajj fare by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency (KSPWA) has advised intending pilgrims to complete the payments of their Hajj deposits on or before February 12, 2024, in order to meet the deadline set by the Commission.
This advice was contained in a statement issued by the Deputy Director of Public Relations, Yunusa Mohammed Abdullahi, and made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Tuesday.
The statement, which quoted the executive chairman of the Agency, Malam Salihu S. Abubakar, further urged intending pilgrims to approach registration officers for enrollment after making full payments, emphasizing that full payment is mandatory.
It warned that defaulters risk forfeiting their chances to embark on the journey to the Holy Land because NAHCON has also fixed a deadline for remittance of the Hajj fares.
“All intending pilgrims are expected to obtain a customized bank teller at their respective Local Government registration centers before making the payment,” he added.
Malam Salihu reiterated that registration by proxy is strictly prohibited, and frail or elderly pilgrims must be accompanied by a relative throughout the pilgrimage.
It will be recalled that NAHCON had earlier announced that the 2024 Hajj fares of intending pilgrims from the North, apart from Borno and Adamawa states, are N4,699 million.
Addressing concerns about the increased Hajj fare, Malam Salihu explained that the adjustment was necessary due to external factors beyond their control, such as fluctuations in the foreign exchange rate.
The Executive Chairman expressed gratitude for the understanding and cooperation of intending pilgrims in the state, assuring them of the agency’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj experience.
The statement declared that the agency is working diligently with NAHCON and other stakeholders to provide the best possible services for pilgrims.
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