Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has reaffirmed its commitment to providing effective leadership, proper coordination and improved services to ensure that the 2027 Hajj operation is conducted successfully, emphasizing that the welfare of every Kwara pilgrim remains a priority.
Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, who disclosed that the Board had commenced preparations for the 2027 Hajj operation while featured on a Radio programme, assured intending pilgrims of the Board’s commitment to smooth, comfortable and well-organized pilgrimage.
The Board also, called on all intending pilgrims to adhere strictly to the approved payment schedule, use only the designated payment channels, submit their required documents on time and follow all official guidelines as preparations for Hajj 2027 gather momentum.
Speaking on the preparations for 2027 Hajj operation, Alhaji AbdulSalam, explained the approved mode of payment and other requirements for intending pilgrims.
He disclosed that pilgrims could make an initial payment of ₦5 million, using their valid international passports, while the balance of the Hajj fare is expected to be paid on or before the end of November 2026.
He urged intending pilgrims to make payments only through designated banks, raising bank drafts approved by the Board and ensure that all relevant documents required for the pilgrimage are properly provided.
The Executive Secretary also advised intending pilgrims whose international passports would expire before April 2027 to renew them promptly to avoid any documentation challenges during the Hajj operation.
He further stressed that pilgrims should ensure that their travel documents remain valid throughout the period required for the pilgrimage.
Alhaji Abdulsalam further highlighted significant improvements recorded by the Board since his assumption of office, particularly in the area of airlift arrangements.
He explained that the official air carrier previously used by the state had the capacity to airlift about 260 pilgrims per trip, resulting in a longer period for the airlift of pilgrims.
According to him, the Board has now increased the airlift capacity to approximately 560 pilgrims per trip, a development which has substantially reduced the number of trips required from about 15 trips to just 4 trips.
He said the improvement would not only shorten the period required to airlift Kwara pilgrims but would also contribute to a more efficient and convenient Hajj experience.
The Executive Secretary expressed gratitude to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his unwavering support to the Board and the welfare of Muslim pilgrims in the state.
He also appreciated the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu Gambari, the Chief Imam of Ilorin, members of staff of the Board, agents and, most importantly, intending pilgrims for their cooperation, trust and support.
