The Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has urged all intending pilgrims for the 2027 Hajj to ensure that they submit their valid international passports to the Agency on or before the end of August 2026.
The Permanent Secretary of the Agency, Alhaji Ibrahim Umar JJ, made the call on Sunday during a meeting with Hajj Assistant Registration Officers representing the 23 Local Government Areas of Sokoto State.
Alhaji Ibrahim explained that the number of pilgrims whose passport details are successfully uploaded onto the Saudi Arabian Masair digital portal, alongside registration and payment of initial deposits, would play an important role in determining the State’s 2027 Hajj quota.
He stressed that payment of the required initial deposit alone does not guarantee a pilgrim’s participation in the 2027 Hajj, noting that intending pilgrims are equally required to submit their international passports promptly to facilitate the necessary registration and documentation processes.
The Permanent Secretary said the requirement was particularly important in view of some of the challenges encountered during the 2026 Hajj operation, which necessitated greater emphasis on early completion of pilgrims’ documentation.
He therefore advised intending pilgrims who have already paid their initial deposits not to delay the submission of their international passports.
Alhaji Ibrahim further directed the Hajj Assistant Registration Officers to intensify sensitisation and ensure that intending pilgrims across the 23 Local Government Areas are adequately informed about the importance of submitting their passports within the stipulated period.
He reiterated the Agency’s commitment to ensuring a smooth, efficient and successful 2027 Hajj operation for pilgrims from Sokoto State.
Signed:
Faruku Umar
Head of Information and Communications
Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency
