The Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has appealed to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to extend the payment deadline for the 2025 Hajj by two weeks. The request was made by the Acting Executive Secretary of the agency, Ladan Ibrahim, as he provided updates on the state’s preparations for this year’s pilgrimage.
Call for Deadline Extension
Ibrahim emphasized that an extension would allow more prospective pilgrims, particularly those from rural areas, to complete their payments before the final deadline. He noted that many intending pilgrims were struggling to meet the current payment deadline due to economic constraints.
“With the extension, more people will be able to complete their payments in time, ensuring that no one misses out,” he said.
NAHCON allocated 5,216 Hajj slots to Sokoto State, but as of now, only 1,700 intending pilgrims have made their initial deposits. Ibrahim highlighted that in previous years, payments were sometimes allowed even after Ramadan. He expressed confidence that with a slight extension, all allocated slots would be fully subscribed.
Preparations for the 2025 Hajj
Despite payment challenges, the agency reported significant progress in its preparations for the pilgrimage. According to Ibrahim, the agency is about 70% ready for the Hajj operations, having already secured:
- Accommodation in Mecca and Medina
- Catering services for pilgrims
- Comfortable camp facilities
The Sokoto State government has also remitted over ₦5 billion to NAHCON, covering initial deposits and other essential expenses.
State Government Support
Ibrahim disclosed that discussions were ongoing with the Sokoto State government to provide financial assistance for intending pilgrims. He recalled that last year, the governor provided financial aid to pilgrims and expressed hope that similar support would be available this year.
“We are hopeful that the government will once again step in to assist our pilgrims, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent anyone from fulfilling this sacred obligation,” he stated.
Commitment to a Successful Hajj Exercise
Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to a smooth and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage, Ibrahim expressed gratitude to Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his unwavering support in ensuring that the 2025 Hajj exercise is successful.
The appeal for an extension comes as many Nigerian Muslims continue to grapple with economic difficulties, making it challenging to raise funds for the pilgrimage within the stipulated timeframe.
