‘2026 Hajj applicants to get priority consideration for 2027 pilgrimage’ — Bauchi Pilgrims Board

The Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has assured intending pilgrims who paid for the 2026 Hajj but were unable to travel to Saudi Arabia that they will receive priority consideration for the 2027 pilgrimage.

The Executive Secretary of the board, Imam Abdurrahman Ibrahim Idris, gave the assurance on Monday during a press briefing at the board’s headquarters in Bauchi, where he also announced the commencement of registration for the 2027 Hajj.

He disclosed that the board had fixed an initial Hajj deposit of N7 million for prospective pilgrims. However, those unable to pay the full amount immediately may make a minimum deposit of N4 million pending the announcement of the final fare by the relevant authorities.

According to Idris, registration and payment of deposits have already commenced and will end on September 25, 2026.

He added that visa processing for the 2027 pilgrimage will close on January 28, 2027, while the airlift of pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is scheduled to begin on April 8, 2027.

The Executive Secretary urged intending pilgrims, Hajj officials and Islamic scholars to intensify awareness campaigns on the approved timetable to ensure all prospective pilgrims complete their registration before the deadline.

He also advised those making payments through their local government Hajj offices, Jaiz Bank or directly to the Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board to ensure their deposits are made promptly.

Idris cautioned members of the public against dealing with unauthorised individuals claiming to facilitate Hajj arrangements, warning that anyone found engaging in such fraudulent activities would face prosecution.

He further noted that the final fare for the 2027 Hajj could differ from that of the 2026 exercise, advising intending pilgrims to await the official announcement before drawing conclusions about the total cost of the pilgrimage.