Jigawa State’s Pilgrims Welfare Board has urged all intending pilgrims to complete their 2026 Hajj fare payments by October 8, 2025.
This was disclosed by the Board’s Director-General, Alhaji Umar Labbo, during a press interaction at the board’s headquarters in Dutse, the state capital on Wednesday.
Labbo revealed that the board recently held a special workshop to train pilgrims’ officers and zonal officers on improving welfare and tackling challenges during the Hajj season.
He emphasised the importance of this training due to the ongoing payment of Hajj seats.
“The training is crucial as the payment deadline for next year’s Hajj seats approaches,” Labbo said, urging pilgrims to pay their deposit of N8.5 million promptly, as directed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.
According to him, Jigawa State has been allocated over 1,600 Hajj seats for the forthcoming 2026 Hajj exercise, with preparations well underway to ensure smooth operations.
Labbo then praised Governor Umar Namadi’s consistent support in enhancing the board’s effectiveness.
He also noted that the operational framework for the upcoming Hajj season has improved significantly compared to last year, reflecting lessons learned from previous experiences.
The Director-General reminded pilgrims that October 8 is the final day to pay for their Hajj seats and emphasized early payment to avoid last-minute rush.
However, the DG thanked the board members and stakeholders for their commitment and called on pilgrims to cooperate closely with officials to guarantee a peaceful pilgrimage ahead.
Moreso, he highlighted that the training workshop aimed to equip officials with welfare strategies and solutions for possible challenges during the pilgrimage journey.
“The board is confident that with these measures and government backing, Jigawa pilgrims will have a fulfilling and comfortable Hajj experience in 2026,” he hinted.
Labbo who therefore thanked the media, describing it as a strong partner in the pilgrimage exercise urged the intending pilgrims to prepare spiritually and financially without delay.