Lagos begins Hajj form sales, sets ₦7m deposit for pilgrims

The Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has commenced the sale of application forms for the upcoming Hajj and Ramadan Umrah pilgrimages. Intending pilgrims are urged to register promptly and begin making fare payments according to the schedules set by Saudi authorities and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

Abdul-Hakeem Ajomagberin, the Board's Secretary, stated that the Hajj form costs ₦20,000 and the Umrah form is ₦10,000. For Hajj, a mandatory initial deposit of ₦7 million must be submitted as a bank draft payable to the Board. Similarly, pilgrims undertaking Ramadan Umrah are required to pay a deposit of ₦5.7 million via bank draft. Ajomagberin noted that any adjustments to the final fare will be communicated once NAHCON announces the official Hajj fare. The deadline for this initial deposit payment is September 2026.

The push for early registration aligns with NAHCON's directive to state boards to finalize registration and payments well in advance of the Hajj season. This timely compliance, Ajomagberin explained, is crucial for NAHCON to effectively coordinate visa processing, accommodation, and airlift arrangements with Saudi authorities, ensuring a smooth pilgrimage experience for Nigerian pilgrims.

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For Hajj, intending pilgrims are to pay an initial deposit of ₦7 million via bank draft drawn from any commercial bank in favour of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.

This year's packages are designed to offer pilgrims comfort and security alongside their spiritual journey. Benefits include accommodation within walking distance of the Haram, reliable local transportation, and daily breakfast and dinner featuring local cuisine. Pilgrims will also receive medical care, spiritual guidance, and guided tours to significant religious and historical sites in Makkah and Madinah.

In a separate development, Ajomagberin announced that enrollment in the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme, managed by the Lagos State Health Management Agency, is now compulsory for all individuals traveling for the pilgrimage. This measure aims to ensure pilgrims have access to adequate healthcare before, during, and after their journey. The cost for the scheme is ₦15,000 for individuals and ₦55,000 for families. The Board Secretary emphasized the Board's commitment to transparency and accountability in its operations.

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Timely compliance will enable NAHCON to effectively coordinate visa processing, accommodation, airlift arrangements, and other logistics with Saudi authorities to ensure a seamless pilgrimage experience for Nigerian pilgrims.