The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has disclosed that no fewer than 1,714 intending pilgrims from the state will participate in the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.

The Board's Secretary, Alhaji Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, made this known during a radio programme in Ilorin, according to a statement issued on Thursday by the board's Assistant Press Secretary, Folarin Sidiq. Abdulkadir said preparations for the pilgrimage were at an advanced stage, assuring that all necessary arrangements had been made to ensure a smooth and hitch-free exercise.

"Visas are ready, accommodation in Saudi Arabia has been secured, bags and other Hajj materials are on the ground, while the Board will receive the Basic Travel Allowance of intending pilgrims next week," he said.

He added that the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria had fixed May 3 for the inaugural flight nationwide, noting that pilgrims from Kwara would be airlifted in three batches.

According to him, the airlift is scheduled for May 6, May 7, and May 9 via Max Air.

The board secretary urged intending pilgrims to keep their permit access cards safe, describing them as critical travel documents.

He also announced that enlightenment programmes had been scheduled to sensitise pilgrims on the rites and guidelines of Hajj.

The first session, he said, will be held on April 19 and will be led by the Imam Imale of Ilorin, Sheikh Abdullahi Abdulhamid, while the Grand Khadi of the Kwara State Shariah Court of Appeal, Justice Abdullateef Kamaldeen, will preside over the second session on April 26.

Abdulkadir appealed to all intending pilgrims to attend both programmes promptly to gain a proper understanding of the rules and requirements of the pilgrimage.

On cost, he said the approved Hajj fare for Kwara pilgrims, as announced by NAHCON, stands at N7.75 million.

He added that pilgrims who earlier paid N8.5 million should visit the board for a refund of the excess payment, with proof of transaction.

"The refund will only be made to the original payer whose name appears on the receipt. Payments will not be made to third parties," he said.