Vice-President Kashim Shettima has instructed Abdullahi Usman to assume the role of Acting Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), pending his screening and confirmation by the Senate.
In an internal memo addressed to Usman on Saturday, Shettima directed him to “take up his position” at the Hajj House immediately. The memo read: “I am directed by His Excellency, Senator Shettima GCON, the Vice President, to convey the approval for your resumption of office as Chairman of the National Hajj Commission in an Acting Capacity with immediate effect, pending Senate confirmation after their recess.”
President Bola Tinubu appointed Usman on August 19, following the dismissal of Jalal Arabi, the former chairman of the commission. Arabi’s removal comes as he faces investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for alleged mismanagement of the N90 billion presidential subsidy designated for the 2024 Hajj.
The leadership change at NAHCON highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring accountability and proper management within the commission, particularly in the wake of allegations against Arabi. Usman’s appointment as acting chairman is seen as a strategic move to stabilize the commission’s operations while the investigation continues and the Senate reconvenes to review his confirmation.
This development marks a significant turning point for NAHCON as it seeks to restore confidence in its administration and uphold the integrity of its management of Hajj operations in Nigeria.
