Edo gets 412 slots for 2024 Hajj

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has allocated 412 slots to Edo for the 2024 Hajj.

Sheik Ibrahim Oyarekhua, Chairman, Edo Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, disclosed this during an interactive session with newsmen on Wednesday in Benin.

“In 2023, 432 slots were allocated to the state in the recently concluded exercise, and with the allocation for 2024, the slot has reduced by 20,” he said.

Oyarekhua said that the slots might be increased when the state exhausts the slots given to it on or before the deadline.

“NAHCON has announced N4.5 million as deposit for the 2024 Hajj before the actual full payment is announced on or before the Ramadan fast in 2024,” he said.

He said that intending pilgrims in the state had commenced depositing money, adding that while some have made part payment, others have paid the full amount announced by NAHCON.

The chairman described the response from intending pilgrims in the state so far as very encouraging.

“Intending pilgrims can make payment through bank transfer or pay cash to the board or any of the designated banks.

“Thereafter, the board will issue prospective pilgrim receipt on the exact amount paid, whether full or part payment,” he explained.

He urged Muslims faithful who have the intention to perform the 2024 Hajj to start making deposits to enable them beat the deadline of Feb. 28, given by NAHCON.

Oyarekhua encouraged intending pilgrims to make early payment as everything about the Hajj operation, would end 50 days before the commencement of Hajj to allow for a hitch free exercise.