The Chairman of Edo State Pilgrim Welfare Board, Sheik Ibrahim Oyarekhua, has disclosed that 180 intending pilgrims have so far made deposits for the 2024 Hajj operation in the state.
Sheik Oyarekhua said this in Benin in a chat with Daily Trust Saturday on the board’s preparation for the 2024 Hajj.
He said the Hajj fare still remains N4.5 million deposit until the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), announces the full amount to be paid by intending pilgrims.
He said: “180 intending pilgrims have either paid full or made deposit of the N4.5m. And NAHCOM allocates 412 slots to Edo State.”
He said the payment of Hajj deposits in the state is a bit encouraging despite the hardship in the country, saying the board’s target still remains the 412 slots allocated to the state.
“So, considering the hardship, the payment made so far is good but we still believe that we would meet the 412 slots given to the state.”
According to him, many Muslims who intend to perform Hajj are waiting for NAHCON to announce the full payment to know whether they can make it or not.
“I am sure that between now and when the actual fare is announced, we would have above 200 intending pilgrims who would have made payment for the hajj.
He called on intending pilgrims to watch out as NAHCON will soon announce the Hajj fare so that those who have balance to pay would complete their payment in order to meet the March 3 deadline given by Saudi Arabia.