The Kwara State Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board has urged intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj to ensure payment of N8,457,685.59 by Friday, 31st January 2025.

In a statement issued on Monday, Sanni Muhammed, the Board’s Assistant Press Secretary, outlined the details provided by the Executive Secretary, Alhaji Abdulkadir Abdulsalam, during live radio appearances on Gerin 95.5 FM and Diamond 88.7 FM.

“The Hajj fares for 2025 will vary across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones due to differences in travel distances to Saudi Arabia, which directly impact aviation fuel costs,” Abdulsalam explained.

He further outlined the costs for other zones: pilgrims from Kwara State (Northern zone) will pay N8,457,685.59; Borno and Adamawa zones will pay N8,327,125.59; while Southern states will pay ?8,784,085.59

“The disparity reflects logistical realities and ensures equitable cost distribution across the country,” he added.

Abdulsalam stressed that January 31, 2025, is the final deadline for payments, cautioning that no extensions will be granted.

“We must remit the payments to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) on time to meet the deadlines established by the Saudi Hajj Authority,” he said.

He also revealed that visa processing will commence on February 25, warning that any delays in payment or submission of necessary documents could jeopardise a pilgrim’s chances of participating in the pilgrimage.

Chief Administrative Officer of the Board, Alhaji Olayinka Shuaib, advised intending pilgrims to complete their payments and submit their international passports promptly to secure their seats.

The Board emphasised the importance of adhering to the deadlines to avoid disruptions in the Hajj preparation process.

Intending pilgrims were urged to contact the Kwara State Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board for further details on the 2025 Hajj schedule.