By MUHAMMAD AHMAD MUSA

The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs has successfully screened Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman as the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), following his nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

During the session presided over by Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, chairman Senate Committee on foreign affairs, members of the Committee on Tuesday October 8th, 2024, expressed their confidence in Prof. Usman?s capacity to lead the Commission during this pivotal period.

The motion for his confirmation was brought by Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero and seconded by Senator Shehu Buba Umar, highlighted Prof. Usman?s distinguished academic background and extensive leadership experience, describing him as an asset capable of elevating NAHCON?s mandate.

?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,? says Senator Aliero, emphasizing that Prof. Usman?s appointment is 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 honored by this trust and look forward to working collaboratively with the entire NAHCON team to fulfill the Commission?s mandate of providing efficient and effective services to the Nigerian pilgrims,? he stated.

A Scholar and Leader of Distinction

Prof. Abdullahi Saleh 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 as 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 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 organizational leadership, making him uniquely equipped to take on the challenges of this national appointment.

A New Era of Leadership for NAHCON

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.

Update news