Professor Abdullahi Usman has resigned as the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, citing personal reasons despite a petition from board members calling for his removal due to alleged misconduct.
Professor Abdullahi Usman has officially announced his resignation as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). He made the announcement in a statement issued in Abuja, where he emphasized that his decision was based purely on personal reasons and denied any accusations of wrongdoing. This resignation comes at a time when tensions within the commission were heightened due to a petition submitted to President Bola Tinubu from eleven board members, calling for Usman's removal due to serious allegations against him.
The petition, dated January 19, 2026, accuses Professor Usman of several infractions including financial indiscipline and lack of transparency in his leadership. Board members claimed that he approved expenditures and awarded contracts without necessary approvals, often exceeding budget limits. These allegations raise concerns about governance within NAHCON and the effective handling of funds allocated for the Hajj pilgrimage, which is a significant religious obligation for Muslims around the world.
Usman's departure raises questions about the future of NAHCON and the management of the upcoming Hajj operations, especially in light of the allegations that led to his resignation. The development indicates potential reforms or leadership changes within the commission as the Nigerian government seeks to maintain integrity and efficiency in the administration of Hajj affairs. Stakeholders will closely monitor how this change in leadership might impact the preparations for Hajj, particularly in ensuring accountability and transparency in the commission's dealings.
