Former chairman and chief executive officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) Abdullahi Usman says his resignation was based on personal reasons.
In a letter dated February 9 and made available to journalists on Tuesday through his technical assistant on media, Ahmad Muazu, Mr Usman said his decision followed reflection and consultation with his family.
“It is with deep reflection and gratitude to Allah SWT that I announce my resignation from the office of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, effective Monday, 9th February 2026,” he wrote.
“I wish to state unequivocally that this decision is taken entirely for personal reasons. After prayerful contemplation and consultation with my family, I have made this choice in good conscience and with respect for the responsibilities of public service.”
He added that the resignation was not connected to dissatisfaction with the commission or the government.
“Once again, I emphasize that this resignation is driven purely by personal considerations and reflects no dissatisfaction with the Commission, the government, or the mandate we have collectively pursued,” he said.
Usman stated that in line with Section 3(6) of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2006, he submitted his resignation in writing to President Bola Tinubu.
“To His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, I am grateful for the trust and honour of appointing me to serve our nation and the Muslim ummah in this capacity. The confidence you placed in me is a privilege I will cherish,” he said.
He also acknowledged Vice President Kashim Shettima.
“I am equally grateful to His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima, whose guidance and support have been with me throughout my tenure,” he added.
Usman thanked members of the NAHCON board, management and staff of the commission, as well as state pilgrims welfare agencies, tour operators, aviation and service providers, and Saudi authorities for their cooperation.
“As I step aside, my prayers are with you all. I ask Allah (SWT) to accept our efforts, to guide and bless the President and the new leadership of NAHCON, and to grant all future pilgrims a Hajj Mabrur,” he said.
Abdullahi Usman was appointed NAHCON chairman by President Tinubu in August 2024 following the removal of Jalal Arabi.
He oversaw the 2025 Hajj operations. His tenure coincided with internal disputes within the commission, including allegations linked to the 2025 Hajj exercise.
In January, some commissioners reportedly submitted a petition to the president expressing a vote of no confidence in him.
Vice President Shettima later met with stakeholders over the dispute.
His resignation comes months before preparations for the 2026 Hajj are expected to intensify.
