The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs has screened Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman as the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.
This was contained in a statement by the Commission’s Acting Head of Information and Publications, Muhammad Ahmad Musa.
Musa in the statement on Tuesday reported that during the session, which was presided over by Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, Chairman Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, members of the Committee expressed their confidence in Prof. Usman’s capacity to lead NAHCON during this pivotal period.
The report indicated that the motion for his confirmation was moved by Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero and seconded by Senator Shehu Buba Umar, both highlighting Prof. Usman’s distinguished academic background and extensive leadership experience, describing him as an asset capable of elevating the Commission’s mandate.
Senator Aliero said: “There is no better person to lead NAHCON at this moment, given his extensive experience and a proven track record of service, honesty and integrity,” emphasising that Prof. Usman’s appointment was not only timely but also strategic for the future direction of Hajj management in Nigeria.
Upon his screening, Prof. Usman expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve the Nigerian hujjaj, pledging to engage all stakeholders proactively.
“I am honoured by this trust and look forward to working collaboratively with the entire NAHCON team to fulfil the Commission’s mandate of providing efficient and effective services to the Nigerian pilgrims,” Prof. Usman stated.
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His confirmation followed his nomination by President Bola Tinubu after the exit of his predecessor, Mallam Jalal Ahmad Arabi.
Professor Usman is an accomplished academician and seasoned administrator, whose career has been marked by a blend of scholarly excellence and public service.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree from the prestigious University of Madina, a Master’s degree in Islamic Studies from Peshawar University, Pakistan, and a Doctorate in Islamic Studies from Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.
He was the Chairman of Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board from 2019 to 2023, where he served for four years, overseeing several transformative initiatives aimed at enhancing Hajj operations and expanding the board’s outreach.
Prof. Usman has served in various capacities, including as Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at Al-Qalam University, Katsina, and as a Visiting Lecturer at Al-Wafaq International University College, Ghana.
In addition to his academic credentials, Prof. Usman is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Local Government and Public Administration of Nigeria and has served in advisory capacities on numerous State Commissions.
His expertise spans project management, strategic planning, and organisational leadership, making him uniquely equipped to take on the challenges of this national appointment.
Prof. Usman’s appointment signals a new era of leadership at NAHCON, one that is poised to bring renewed hope, innovation, stakeholder engagement and operational efficiency.
His track record of integrity, coupled with a profound understanding of Hajj administration, positions him to spearhead the Commission’s efforts to elevate the Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims and enhance the Commission’s role as a global player in hajj management.