President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman as the Executive Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). The appointment was announced by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, on August 19, 2024. The appointment is subject to Senate confirmation.
Professor Usman is a distinguished scholar with academic qualifications from the University of Madinah in Saudi Arabia and Peshawar University in Pakistan. His deep grounding in Islamic studies is matched by his vast experience in Hajj operations. He previously served as Chairman of the Kano State Pilgrims Board, where he successfully managed the state’s large contingent of pilgrims, making Kano one of the most organized and efficient states in the country’s Hajj operations.
In announcing the appointment, President Tinubu emphasized that he expects Professor Usman to bring integrity, transparency, and a strong commitment to national service in his role as NAHCON Chairman. The President’s choice of Professor Usman reflects a desire to strengthen the commission’s capacity to manage the Hajj pilgrimage effectively and ensure Nigerian pilgrims receive the highest standards of service.
The President’s adviser noted that Professor Usman’s proven track record, both as a scholar and an administrator, makes him a well-suited leader for NAHCON. His experience and leadership in managing large-scale operations are expected to enhance the commission’s performance and improve the experience of Nigerian pilgrims.
This appointment is seen as a strategic step toward ensuring that NAHCON continues to uphold its mandate with professionalism and dedication under Professor Usman’s stewardship.
