By Mohammed Abubakar Dutse
The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, (JSPWB) has announced a one-week extension for intending pilgrims to complete their payments for the 2025 Hajj fare registration.
The Director-General of the board, Ahmad Labbo, who made the disclosure during an interaction with reporters in his office said the new deadline is now Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
The expiration date for the exercise was initially fixed for Friday, January 31, 2025.
Labbo who made the announcement while briefing newsmen explained that, the extension was necessary to allow more intending pilgrims to complete their registration.
“The board has already deposited the required advance with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), as part of its early preparation for the Hajj exercise,” Labbo said.
The DG stated that this year, NAHCON has allocated 1809 slots to Jigawa State for the Hajj pilgrimage a
“To meet the NAHCON deadline, the board secured a loan of over N3 billion from the Jigawa State Government. This fund will be used to make the necessary deposits with NAHCON,” the DG highlighted.
Labbo urged all intending pilgrims to take advantage of the extended deadline to complete their registration and assured them (Pilgrims) that the board is working tirelessly to ensure a smooth and successful Hajj exercise.
The Director-General also commended the Jigawa State Government for its support and cooperation. He praised the government’s efforts in providing the necessary funds to facilitate the Hajj exercise.
Labbo further emphasized the importance of early preparation for the Hajj exercise. He noted that the board’s early preparation has helped to avoid last-minute rush and complications.
He however, attributed the success recorded by the board to its commitment to transparency, accountability, and efficiency.
“The board has also introduced several innovations to improve the Hajj experience for pilgrims from Jigawa State. These include the provision of comfortable accommodation closer to Haramain in Saudi Arabia, transportation, and medical care.” the DG stated.
Labbo appealed to all stakeholders, including intending pilgrims, to cooperate with the board to ensure a successful exercise, assuring that “the board is committed to providing excellent services to all pilgrims.”