Bauchi Fixes December 21 Deadline For 2026 Hajj Payments

The Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, has announced December 21, 2025, as the deadline for all Hajj payments ahead of the 2026 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

The executive secretary of the board, Imam Abdurrahman Ibrahim Idris, disclosed this in Bauchi while speaking with journalists, saying the decision aligns with new directives from the Saudi Arabian Hajj Commission.

According to him, the early deadline is intended to ensure that all travel and logistical arrangements are concluded before the commencement of the Ramadan fast, in line with Saudi Arabia’s updated Hajj calendar.

Idris urged intending pilgrims to make their deposits promptly at designated collection centers across the state to secure their slots for the 2026 exercise.

He revealed that the total Hajj fare has been pegged at N8,245,000, while a minimum deposit of N4 million is required to initiate the registration process.

The executive secretary assured that the Board in collaboration with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), is working to ensure a smooth, transparent, and accountable payment process. He further guaranteed that all deposits made by pilgrims would be duly documented and safeguarded.

He also announced plans to commence early orientation and enlightenment programmes to educate intending pilgrims on Hajj procedures, travel regulations, and spiritual preparation ahead of the sacred journey.

Idris appealed to community leaders and Islamic scholars to help sensitise the public about the importance of meeting the payment deadline, warning that delays could affect seat allocations and visa processing by Saudi authorities.

Meanwhile, the federal government is expected to introduce a subsidy to cushion the financial burden on Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj.