The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has urged intending pilgrims for the 2027 Hajj to complete their payments and documentation on or before September 26, 2026, in line with the deadline set by the Saudi Arabian authorities.

The Executive Secretary of the Board, Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, gave the advice on Thursday in Ilorin, warning that delays in payment or documentation could affect visa processing and participation in next year's pilgrimage.

He recalled that during previous Hajj exercises, some prospective pilgrims failed to complete the required processes on time, resulting in delayed visa approvals, while others eventually requested refunds after missing the deadline.

According to him, the Board is working to improve accommodation, welfare services and the overall coordination of the pilgrimage for pilgrims from Kwara State.

"We are determined to build on the achievements of the 2026 Hajj. Our priority is to provide better accommodation, improved welfare services and a seamless experience for pilgrims from Kwara State," he said.

Abdulkadir also disclosed that preparations for the 2027 Hajj are already underway, including plans for early airlift operations using aircraft with a seating capacity of more than 200 passengers to ensure a smoother pilgrimage.

He advised intending pilgrims to remain patient, comply with all necessary procedures and prepare for the pilgrimage with sincerity.

"Pilgrims should be patient, comply with all necessary procedures and maintain good intentions as they prepare for this important religious obligation," he added.

The Executive Secretary also clarified reports that pilgrims received different Personal Travelling Allowances (PTA) during the 2026 Hajj.

He explained that the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) approved and paid $400 to every pilgrim, while the additional $100 received by some beneficiaries was a personal donation from Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq during the farewell ceremony.

"The $400 was the approved Personal Travelling Allowance paid by NAHCON. The extra $100 received by some pilgrims was a donation from Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and should not be mistaken as part of the official allowance," Abdulkadir explained.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), in collaboration with state Muslim pilgrims welfare boards, oversees the annual Hajj exercise for Nigerian pilgrims.

In recent years, Saudi Arabian authorities have introduced stricter timelines for payments, documentation and visa processing to improve planning and logistics, making early compliance essential for intending pilgrims.