The Board advises intending pilgrims to complete their payments before the first week of December, as NAHCON reduces the Hajj fare by over ₦500,000.
The Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has appealed to all intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise to complete their payments before the first week of December, warning that late payment could lead to disqualification.
The Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan, made the call in an exclusive interview with our correspondent from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He said timely payment would enable the Board to make adequate logistical arrangements and secure Hajj slots for all pilgrims from the state.
Saadu Hassan explained that the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) had announced a downward review of the Hajj fare, reducing it from ₦8,244,813.76 to ₦7,696,769.76, a difference of more than ₦500,000.
He described the development as a welcome relief to intending pilgrims, urging them to seize the opportunity of the reduced rate to complete their payments early. “This is a temporary window that may not last for long, considering fluctuations in exchange rates and other global factors,” he cautioned.
According to him, allocation of Hajj seats to states will be determined strictly by the number of intending pilgrims who complete their payments before the deadline. “There is no automatic seat reservation,” he said. “Each state will receive seats based on the number of pilgrims who have fully paid before the cutoff date.”
The Executive Secretary warned that late payments could result in exclusion, as the Saudi authorities have introduced new measures tightening visa issuance and Hajj slot allocations. He added that Nigeria might receive fewer slots this year due to the regulatory reforms being implemented by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
Mr Hassan also called on Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, and local government Hajj officers to intensify awareness campaigns and educate intending pilgrims on the importance of early registration and payment. He noted that collective responsibility was key to ensuring a smooth and well-organised Hajj operation.
He assured that the Gombe State Pilgrims Welfare Board is fully prepared to assist pilgrims throughout the registration process, medical screening, and orientation exercise. Early preparation, he said, would help minimise challenges and ensure the comfort and welfare of pilgrims during the sacred journey.
While appreciating the support of the Gombe State Government and the cooperation of previous pilgrims, Mr Hassan reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and efficient service delivery. He said the welfare of pilgrims remains the Board’s top priority.
Finally, the Executive Secretary urged all intending pilgrims not to delay their payments. He stressed that the first week of December remains the official cutoff date for Hajj registration, adding that anyone who fails to complete payment before the deadline “may not be guaranteed a chance to perform the pilgrimage next year.”