Edo urge intending pilgrims to balance hajj fare before 12th February, announces final fare

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A man takes a picture of Muslim worshippers performing prayers around the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, at the Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia's holy city of Mecca on August 15, 2018, prior to the start of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in the holy city. - The hajj, expected to draw more than two million pilgrims to Mecca this year, represents a key rite of passage for Muslims and a massive logistical challenge for Saudi authorities, with colossal crowds cramming into relatively small holy sites. (Photo by BANDAR ALDANDANI / AFP)

The Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board in a significant update has officially declared the final Hajj fare for intending pilgrims, emphasizing the need for them to complete their payments before Monday 12, February 2024.

This announcement was made by the Chairman of the board, Sheikh Ibrahim Oyarekhua in his office in Benin City, the state capital while addressing stakeholders and some intending pilgrims on the outcome of the meeting with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria NAHCON in Abuja recently

According to him, the finalized Hajj fare is set at N4,899,000 for the South while pilgrims from the North will pay N4, 699,000, adding that the difference is occasioned by the nearness of the northern region to Saudi Arabia.

Oyarekhua urged intending pilgrims from the state to promptly balance their payments to ensure a smooth and timely preparation for the upcoming pilgrimage.

The chairman noted:”The deadline of February 12 is sacrosanct and it provides a clear timeline for individuals in Edo State, especially those who have paid the initial deposit of N4.5m to complete their money. That way, they have fulfilled their financial obligations and secure their participation in the sacred journey”

“Let me also use this opportunity to urge you, if you still have issues with your passport issuance, please, follow up quickly because, it is not possible to travel without it. Let us know where you have challenge. We have a strong collaboration with the immigration office”

“With this announcement of final Hajj fare, it means the journey to Hajj in 2024 has started. Please, spread the news. We will be visiting the different senatorial districts in the state soonest for sensitization meetings”. The chairman noted.

The announcement reflects the Board’s commitment to effective planning and coordination, ensuring that all logistical aspects of the pilgrimage are addressed in a timely manner. Sheikh Oyarekhua emphasized the importance of adhering to the specified deadline to avoid any complications and to facilitate a seamless experience for the pilgrims.

While commending the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for the effort in ensuring that the fare was not up to N5m, the chairman encouraged intending pilgrims to take advantage of the provided timeframe to complete their payments, allowing for ample preparation leading up to the Hajj.

The Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board assures its continued support in facilitating a successful and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage for all participants.