By Peter Omopo
The Federal Capital Territory Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (FCT-MPWB) has commenced registration of intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise with a minimum deposit of N8.5 million.
The development was announced in Abuja on Monday in a statement signed by the board’s Public Relations Officer, Malam Muhammad Aliyu, quoting the Director, Alhaji Kadiri Edah.
Edah explained that the N8.5 million deposit is required to secure a seat with the board, noting that payment must be made via bank draft from any commercial bank, payable to the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board. The deadline for submission is December 2, 2025.
He added that intending pilgrims are expected to submit both the bank draft and their international passport to the board’s officials across the six area councils of the FCT before the closing date.
“For transparency and fairness, only bank drafts will be accepted, as no cash payments are allowed. Registration will also be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis,” Edah said.
The director advised those who had deposited funds for previous Hajj exercises but could not travel to formally declare their interest before the deadline, so their seats can be reserved for the 2026 pilgrimage.
He further reassured residents that the board is introducing new strategies to enhance services for pilgrims and warned against dealing with fraudsters seeking to exploit intending pilgrims by requesting payments outside the approved fare.
