The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has urged intending pilgrims from the state to expedite the payment of their deposits to secure their places for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.

The agency’s executive chairman, Salihu Abubakar, made the call in an interactive session with journalists on Tuesday in Kaduna.

Mr Abubakar emphasised the importance of timely action, reminding all intending pilgrims that the registration deadline remains January 31, as set by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

He expressed optimism about the registration process, highlighting a significant increase in the number of pilgrims due to the extension of the registration time.

“We’ve observed a significant increase in the number of pilgrims registering for Hajj 2024. However, to confirm their participation, timely registration and deposit are crucial.

“We urge all intending pilgrims not to delay but to complete the process by January 31 to avoid missing this sacred opportunity,” he said.

Mr Abubakar assured pilgrims that NAHCON is finalising the final cost and expressed optimism that the fare would remain ₦4.5 million or lower.

“We understand the financial considerations involved in Hajj,” he said.

He said NAHCON was working diligently to determine the most affordable and reasonable fare for Nigerian pilgrims.

“We anticipate a final announcement soon,” Mr Abubakar said, adding that in the meantime, all intending pilgrims are required to deposit ₦4.5 million in the designated bank account of the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency.

(NAN)