The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has directed intending pilgrims to pay an initial Hajj deposit of N7.5 million ahead of the 2027 pilgrimage. Both reports say the decision is communicated through the board’s leadership and zonal operations. Vanguard reports that Umar made the announcement during a meeting with the board’s zonal officers, describing the deposit requirement as part of preparations aimed at ensuring a smooth and hitch-free Hajj exercise. Daily Post Nigeria similarly reports that the board demands the N7.5 million initial deposit and attributes the message to the board’s spokesman, Habibu Yarima, as contained in a statement issued on Wednesday. The reports agree that the deposit is meant to support advance arrangements for the next Hajj season. They do not provide further details on payment timelines, additional fees, or specific criteria for eligibility in the excerpts provided.