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The Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has declared November, 2025 as the deadline for payment of the N8.5m initial deposit for the 2026 Hajj exercise by intending pilgrims wishing to perform the holy pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Hon. Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode made the declaration during a scheduled meeting with stakeholders in his office at the Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday.

A statement by the Public Affairs officer of the Board, quoted Layode to have said that decision on the deadline was taken in compliance with the guidelines and calendar unveiled by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. He added that the State would not take the guidelines for granted, hence, the decision to start the operation early with the sales of form to intending pilgrims and complete necessary processes on or before the end of December.

While appreciating the stakeholders for their cooperation and support over the years, he urged them to work hard towards getting more intending pilgrims in order to actualize the 2,236 slots allocated to the State by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

He also enjoined them to ensure that their pilgrims are in good health when registering them for the spiritual exercise so as to avoid health related casualties whilst in the foreign land.

Also speaking at the meeting, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters who doubles as Chairman CWC on 2025 Hajj, Dr.
Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, said that the stakeholders had greatly contributed to the successes recorded by the State in Hajj and Umrah operations over the years.

He urged them not to relent in their efforts at marketing the ‘Lagos brand’ to potential intending pilgrims but continue to bring more patronage to the state. He also promised that their efforts would not be in vain.

The Board Secretary, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, stated that as formidable partners, the State Government has absolute confidence in them to deliver and add value to the much expected success in the 2026 Hajj and Umrah operations mo