The Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced November 2025 as the deadline for intending pilgrims to pay the initial deposit of ₦8.5 million for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, disclosed this during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, on Wednesday.
According to him, the decision aligns with the new guidelines and timetable issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
“We cannot afford to take these guidelines for granted. That is why Lagos is commencing the process early with sales of forms, screening and other documentation so that all arrangements are concluded before December,” Layode said.
He noted that Lagos had been allocated 2,236 slots by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, urging stakeholders to mobilise more intending pilgrims to ensure full utilisation.
Layode further stressed the importance of health screening for pilgrims.
“We must ensure our pilgrims are physically fit before embarking on this spiritual journey to avoid unnecessary health complications in the holy land,” he added.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters and Chairman of the 2025 Hajj Committee, Dr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, commended the stakeholders for their contributions to the State’s Hajj operations.
“Your efforts have greatly shaped the successes Lagos has recorded over the years. I encourage you to continue promoting the Lagos brand and bringing more pilgrims into our fold. I assure you, your labour will not go unrewarded,” Jebe said.
Board Secretary, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, also reaffirmed the government’s confidence in its partners.
“We trust you will deliver and add more value as we prepare for the 2026 operations. Always remember to comply with NAHCON and Saudi authorities’ guidelines,” he said.
Stakeholders’ Chairman, Alhaji Rabiu Olowo, expressed gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his deputy Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and other officials for their support.
“On behalf of my colleagues, I pledge that we will keep improving and attracting more pilgrims to patronise Lagos for a rewarding pilgrimage,” Olowo assured.
Meanwhile, in a related development, Ajomagberin and his management team paid a courtesy visit to philanthropist Alhaji Libari Oseni on Thursday.
Oseni, who sponsored several pilgrims in the last Hajj, received prayers and was urged to extend his support to the 2026 exercise.
In his response, Oseni promised continued partnership with the board.
“As long as Allah gives me the means, I will keep supporting Lagos pilgrims for the holy journey,” he said.