Prof Usman steps down as NAHCON chairman, confirms resignation

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof Abdullahi Usman, has formally confirmed his resignation.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja and signed by him, Usman said his decision to step down was taken for personal reasons, dismissing any suggestion of wrongdoing.

His resignation comes amid reports that members of the NAHCON board had submitted a petition to President Bola Tinubu seeking his removal over alleged misconduct. The petition, dated January 19, 2026, and signed by 11 board members, expressed a vote of no confidence in the former chairman and accused him of financial indiscipline, lack of transparency and approving expenditures and contracts without board approval, allegedly beyond budgetary limits.

The petition also claimed that such actions amounted to serious breaches of financial governance and noted that he was reportedly under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. It further alleged that some Hajj-related contracts were awarded in violation of the Bureau of Public Procurement Act and due process, exposing the commission to legal, financial and reputational risks.

In his statement, Usman said his resignation takes effect from Monday, February 9, 2026. He stressed that the decision followed personal reflection and consultation with his family, and was made with respect for the responsibilities of public office.
He added that, in line with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2006, he had submitted his resignation in writing to President Tinubu.

Usman expressed gratitude to the President for the opportunity to serve, as well as to Vice President Kashim Shettima for his support during his tenure. He also thanked the NAHCON board, management and staff, state pilgrims’ welfare agencies, tour operators, aviation and service providers, and Nigerian partners in Saudi Arabia for their cooperation.

Reiterating his position, Usman maintained that his resignation was solely for personal reasons and did not reflect dissatisfaction with the commission, the government or its mandate.

Before stepping down, his last official engagement was the reception of Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, in Abuja last week. Prof Usman was appointed chairman of NAHCON by President Tinubu in 2024.