By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has appointed Dr. Mustapha Muhammad Ali as the new Secretary of the Commission.

His appointment follows the voluntary resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Rabi?u Kontagora, after which Alhaji Alidu Shutti served in an acting capacity.

A statement by Shafii Sani Mohammed Principal Information Officer, for NAHCON, Friday, February 28, 2025 , said, Dr. Ali emerged as the preferred candidate after meeting the qualifications advertised by the Commission across various media platforms.

His appointment was officially approved by NAHCON?s 5th Board during a meeting on February 26, 2025, in line with Section 8 of the NAHCON Establishment Act (2006).

His selection also ensures that the North East region is represented on the Commission?s board. His previous role as the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Pilgrims Board further strengthened his candidacy.

Born in Maiduguri, Borno State, Dr. Ali brings a wealth of academic and professional experience to the role. He holds a Doctorate and master?s degree in Islamic studies, a Postgraduate Diploma in Education and Administration, a Diploma in Computer Application and Internet, and an Executive Life Manager Certificate. His educational background includes studies at the University of Maiduguri, Bayero University Kano, and the University College for Islamic Call in Tripoli, Libya.

Dr. Ali has an extensive career spanning multiple leadership positions. He has served as the Director of the Centre for Kanuri Ajami and Qur?ani Studies at Borno State University, Chairman of the Caretaker Management Committee of Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, and Deputy Provost at Muhammad Goni College of Legal and Islamic Studies.

In his new role as NAHCON Secretary, Dr. Ali will be responsible for record-keeping, correspondence, and serving as Secretary at all Commission meetings.

Additionally, he will oversee the reporting of the Commission?s activities to relevant authorities, maintain the register of licensed Hajj operators, coordinate the publication of Commission regulations, and uphold performance standards.

His tenure, set for four years with the possibility of renewal, officially begins upon assumption of office. Stakeholders expect that his wealth of experience will add significant value to NAHCON?s operations.

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