Bauchi State has announced that all 2025 Hajj pilgrims must receive a compulsory polio vaccination six weeks before their departure

The Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced that all intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj must receive the polio vaccine as part of their travel preparations.

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Abdulrahman Idris, the Executive Secretary of the Board, made the official announcement on Tuesday, during a press briefing at the Board’s headquarters in Bauchi.

Idris revealed that the 2,200 pilgrims who registered with the board for this year’s Holy pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia are required to get vaccinated against polio at least six weeks before their departure.

He emphasised that this directive, which comes from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), is essential for ensuring the health and safety of Nigerian pilgrims during the pilgrimage.

“The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has made it clear that all intending pilgrims must receive the polio vaccination before travel. Failure to comply with this regulation will result in the pilgrim being unable to travel,” Idris said.

The Executive Secretary further stated that NAHCON has completed this year’s Hajj registration process and assured pilgrims that all necessary travel documents, including luggage, uniforms, and other essential items, will be ready in the next two weeks.

In addition to the vaccination requirement, the board has urged pilgrims who have not yet submitted their passport photographs, with a white background, to do so promptly to secure their Saudi Arabian visa.

Idris also advised those who have not completed their Hajj fare payments to either withdraw their funds or leave it in the board’s account until next year.

“We continue to urge pilgrims to fully cooperate with the board to ensure the success of the 2025 Hajj exercise,” he added.

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This new development is expected to streamline the health protocols for the 2025 Hajj and ensure that Nigerian pilgrims meet all necessary requirements for a safe and fulfilling pilgrimage.