The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has fixed N5 million as the initial deposit for intending pilgrims from the state for the 2027 Hajj, with the outstanding balance expected to be paid on or before the end of November 2026.

The development was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the board's Press Secretary, Jimoh Jumoke, in Ilorin.

Speaking on the preparations, the Executive Secretary of the board, Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, said arrangements had commenced for the 2027 Hajj, assuring intending pilgrims of the board's commitment to providing a smooth and well-coordinated pilgrimage.

Abdulkadir said intending pilgrims could make the initial payment upon presentation of a valid international passport, while the final Hajj fare and outstanding balance would be determined and paid within the approved timeframe.

He urged prospective pilgrims to make payments only through banks and other channels officially designated by the board and to submit all required documents within the stipulated period.

The executive secretary also advised intending pilgrims whose passports would expire before April 2027 to renew them promptly to avoid documentation challenges during the Hajj preparations.

Abdulkadir disclosed that the board had also improved its airlift arrangements to reduce the time required to transport Kwara pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

He explained that the previous official air carrier could transport about 260 pilgrims per trip, resulting in an airlift period of about 15 trips.

Under the new arrangement, however, the capacity has increased to approximately 560 pilgrims per trip, reducing the number of trips to about four.

According to him, the development would shorten the airlift period and provide a more efficient and convenient experience for Kwara pilgrims.

The executive secretary reaffirmed the board's commitment to effective coordination, improved services and proper welfare of pilgrims throughout the 2027 Hajj operation.

He appreciated the support of the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Emir of Ilorin, Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and the Chief Imam of Ilorin, as well as the board's staff, agents and intending pilgrims.

He urged all stakeholders to continue to cooperate with the board as preparations for the 2027 Hajj gather momentum.