The decision is aimed at ensuring a smooth, orderly, and well-coordinated pilgrimage process for all confirmed pilgrims.

In a press release signed by Mr. Mohammed Amin Lamptey, Director of Communications, PAOG, and copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), the Office said the proactive measure was necessary to prevent oversubscription, which had historically resulted in administrative backlogs and operational challenges during Hajj operations.

The statement said closing payments at this stage would enable the PAOG to align the number of confirmed pilgrims with the approved quota for the pilgrimage.

It noted that keeping the number of pilgrims within the approved quota remained critical to ensuring a safe, efficient, and successful Hajj.

The release said the decision was taken in the best interest of prospective pilgrims and the nation, particularly to ensure that all persons who had successfully completed payment would be airlifted to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

It advised prospective pilgrims who were unable to complete their payments before the closure to prepare for subsequent Hajj arrangements.

The PAOG also cautioned the public to be wary of individuals who claimed to have opportunities for participation in the current Hajj pilgrimage.

The Office urged the public to visit its offices for further information or clarification or call 0537383992.