1,714 Kwara pilgrims set for 2026 Hajj

By Ahmed Olayinka

The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced that 1,714 intending pilgrims from the state will take part in the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.

The Board’s Secretary, Alhaji Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, disclosed this during a radio programme in Ilorin, noting that preparations for the pilgrimage are already at an advanced stage. He assured that all logistics have been put in place to guarantee a smooth and hitch-free exercise.

According to him, essential arrangements including visa processing, accommodation in Saudi Arabia, and distribution of travel materials have been completed, while the Basic Travel Allowance for pilgrims is expected to be released soon.

He further revealed that the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has scheduled May 3 for the commencement of inaugural flights nationwide. Pilgrims from Kwara State are expected to be airlifted in three batches on May 6, May 7, and May 9, through Max Air.

Abdulkadir advised intending pilgrims to safeguard their permit access cards, describing them as vital travel documents required throughout the journey.

He also announced a series of enlightenment programmes designed to educate pilgrims on the rites and guidelines of Hajj.

The sessions will be led by the Imam Imale of Ilorin, Sheikh Abdullahi Abdulhamid and the Grand Khadi of the Kwara State Shariah Court of Appeal, Justice Abdullateef Kamaldeen.

The board secretary urged all pilgrims to attend the sessions to ensure proper understanding of the pilgrimage requirements.

On the cost of the exercise, he stated that the approved fare for Kwara pilgrims stands at ₦7.75 million, as fixed by the National Hajj Commission.

He added that those who had earlier paid ₦8.5 million should visit the board with proof of payment to receive refunds of the excess amount.

He clarified that refunds would only be made to the original payer whose name appears on the receipt, stressing that third-party claims would not be entertained.