The Edo Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has directed 2025 Hajj pilgrims to make an initial deposit of N8.4 million each, pending the final announcement of the Hajj fare by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
Speaking in Benin on Sunday, the board’s chairman, Sheikh Ibrahim Oyarekhua, emphasized the need for early deposits due to a new policy from Saudi Arabia that requires payments to be made two months before Arafat day.
Oyarekhua explained that although the final Hajj fare is usually announced two to three weeks before the payment deadline, making an initial deposit would ensure that pilgrims can complete their payments on time. He noted that last year, all pilgrims received their visas on time due to the early payment policy.
“The board is sensitizing Muslim communities about the importance of making deposits, even if they cannot pay the full N8.4 million initially. Intending pilgrims are urged to deposit any amount into the board’s account to secure their spot,” Oyarekhua stated.
