The Kwara State Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board has issued a critical deadline for the payment of the 2025 Hajj fare, urging all intending pilgrims to complete their payments by Friday, January 31, 2025. This deadline comes as part of a broader effort to ensure a smooth organizational process for one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
Hajj Fare Details
The fare for the pilgrimage from Kwara State has been set at N8,457,685.59. This amount reflects the cost for pilgrims from the Northern zone, which includes Kwara State. The fares vary across Nigeria due to logistical differences, particularly the distance to Saudi Arabia affecting aviation fuel costs. Here’s a breakdown by region:
- Northern Zone (including Kwara State): N8,457,685.59
- Borno and Adamawa Zones: N8,327,125.59
- Southern States: N8,784,085.59
Importance of the Deadline
The Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Abdulkadir Abdulsalam, emphasized the non-negotiable nature of this deadline. According to Abdulsalam, timely payment is crucial because:
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) requires all payments to be remitted by the set date to meet deadlines established by the Saudi Hajj Authority.
Visa processing for the pilgrimage is scheduled to commence on February 25, 2025. Late payments could lead to delays or even exclusion from the pilgrimage.
Payment and Registration Process
Intending pilgrims are advised to ensure the full amount is paid by the deadline to secure their spot, alongside payment, pilgrims must submit their international passports to facilitate visa processing.
Alhaji Olayinka Shuaib, the Chief Administrative Officer of the Board, has stressed the importance of promptness in these actions. Pilgrims can seek further details directly from the Kwara State Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board.
Financial Considerations
Acknowledging the economic challenges faced by many, Abdulsalam noted that the fare is structured to reflect logistical realities and ensure equitable cost distribution across different zones in Nigeria. He encouraged pilgrims not to despair over the costs, highlighting the spiritual rewards of the Hajj, one of Islam’s five pillars, which is obligatory for Muslims who are physically and financially capable.
Airlift and Accommodations
The Board has coordinated with selected airlines for the airlift, ensuring that logistical arrangements are in place for a seamless journey. Accommodations in Saudi Arabia are also planned to be close to the Haram (Kaabah) in Makkah and Masjid Nabawi (Prophet’s Mosque) in Madinah, enhancing the pilgrimage experience.
Community Engagement
Live radio sessions on Gerin 95.5 FM and Diamond 88.7 FM were conducted to spread awareness about the deadline and provide clarity on the process. These sessions are aimed at ensuring all intending pilgrims are well-informed and can prepare accordingly.
As the deadline approaches, the Kwara State Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board is committed to facilitating a successful Hajj for all its pilgrims. With the set fare and the urgency of payment, the board is ensuring that the spiritual journey is as free from logistical worries as possible. Intending pilgrims are urged to act swiftly to meet the payment deadline and partake in this significant religious journey.
