Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board says it is set to commence the refund of Hajj fares following the reduction in Hajj seats announced by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
In a statement issued to newsmen, the Public Relations Officer of the board, Habibu Yusuf Babura, said the Director General, Alhaji Ahmed Umar Labbo, explained that the refund is for intending pilgrims who had already paid for their Hajj seats across the state before the adjustment in fares.
Ahmed Labbo said, NAHCON has announced that the revised cost for the Northern zone now stands at over 7.6 million naira while pilgrims departing from the Southern zone will pay over 7.9 million naira.
According to him, the refund process is a directive from the National Hajj Commission following the substantial reduction of the Hajj fare.
He therefore, directed all Zonal Officers attached to the board to begin collecting application forms from intending pilgrims immediately.
”We urge all zonal officers to act swiftly in collecting the necessary applications along with valid bank account details from the pilgrims”
The DG urged the officials to ensure that the refund reaches the beneficiaries without delay.
He said that preparations for the 2026 Hajj operations are already in top gear, both within the state and in Saudi Arabia.
He pointed out that, the Board is working tirelessly to secure the best arrangements for the state contingent, as the usual practices of the hajj exercise in the state.
”I appeal to all intending pilgrims to ensure they pay for their Hajj seats on or before December 24th adhering to this deadline is crucial to avoid any complications or potential disqualification from the exercise,”
Ahmed Labbo expressed gratitude to Governor Umar Namadi for his continuous support and unwavering commitment to the board, which has been instrumental in ensuring the welfare and comfort of the state pilgrims.
Usman Mohammed Zaria
