The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced that 1,714 intending pilgrims from the state will participate in the 2026 Hajj in Saudi Arabia, with arrangements already nearing completion.

Secretary of the board, Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, disclosed this during a radio programme in Ilorin, stating that key logistics for the pilgrimage had been finalised to ensure a seamless exercise.

He said visas had been processed, accommodation secured in Saudi Arabia, and essential travel materials distributed, adding that the Basic Travel Allowance for pilgrims would be disbursed in the coming week.

Abdulkadir noted that the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) had fixed May 3 for the commencement of inaugural flights across the country, with Kwara pilgrims scheduled to depart in three batches.

According to him, the airlift from the state will take place on May 6, May 7, and May 9, with transportation to be handled by Max Air.

He advised intending pilgrims to safeguard their permit access cards, stressing that the documents are vital for their journey.

The board also outlined plans for sensitisation programmes to educate pilgrims on Hajj rites and procedures.

The first session is slated for April 19 and will be led by the Imam Imale of Ilorin, Sheikh Abdullahi Abdulhamid, while the second, scheduled for April 26, will be presided over by the Grand Khadi of the Kwara State Shariah Court of Appeal, Justice Abdullateef Kamaldeen.

Abdulkadir urged all intending pilgrims to attend both sessions to better understand the requirements and guidelines of the pilgrimage.

On the cost of the exercise, he said the approved fare for Kwara pilgrims stands at N7.75 million, as determined by NAHCON.

He added that individuals who had earlier paid N8.5 million would be refunded the excess upon presentation of proof of payment, noting that refunds would only be made to the original payer listed on the receipt.