Abdul Mohammed Isa. Abuja
The countdown to the highly anticipated 2024 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia has begun, and preparations are already underway across Nigeria. Aspiring pilgrims can now start planning and making the necessary arrangements, as states have started announcing fares and seat allocations for the pilgrimage.
Lagos State Government Taking the Lead
The Lagos State government is leading the way by directing its Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board to kickstart operations for the 2024 Hajj and Ramadan Umrah. This includes the sale of forms to interested pilgrims, allowing them to secure their spot and begin the process of embarkation.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive aims to ensure that intending pilgrims have sufficient time to complete all the necessary requirements within the specified timeframe set by Saudi Arabian authorities.
Important Requirements for Pilgrims
Prior to embarking on this sacred journey, pilgrims from Nigeria must meet several prerequisites. These include possessing a valid international passport, making an initial deposit of Four Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N4.5 million), undergoing medical screening, and fulfilling other necessary obligations.
It is worth noting that the Chairman/CEO of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Barr. Zhikrullah Kunle Hassan, previously announced the initial deposit, which remains the same.
Allotment of Seats and Registration Commence
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has allocated 950,000 Hajj seats to Nigeria for the 2024 exercise, with NAHCON assigning 3,517 slots for Lagos State. Furthermore, various other states such as Kwara, Katsina, Bauchi, Ogun, and Kano have also commenced registration and started collecting deposits from prospective pilgrims. Each state has outlined the necessary procedures and specified deposit amounts.
To accommodate the fluctuating exchange rates, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, in collaboration with state bodies, has set the minimum deposit for the 2024 Hajj at N4.5 million. This decision is non-negotiable and aims to provide a realistic basis for cost negotiations and ensure smooth preparations for pilgrims.
Securing Eligibility and Further Inquiries
Prospective pilgrims are strongly urged to meet the required deposit amount to secure their eligibility for the 2024 Hajj. It is crucial to meet the upcoming deadlines for fund remittance and Visa processing. For further inquiries and registration, interested individuals, groups, or organizations can contact the designated numbers provided by the respective states’ Pilgrims Welfare Boards.
The state governments are fully committed to facilitating a seamless spiritual journey for pilgrims as they embark on the significant Hajj exercise to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2024.
