Abdullahi Usman Breaks Silence, Reveals Why He Resigned as NAHCON Chairman

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

Usman announced his decision in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, stressing that he stepped down for personal reasons and denying any wrongdoing.

His resignation comes amid reports that the NAHCON board had petitioned President Bola Tinubu, seeking his removal over alleged abuse of office and misconduct.

The petition, dated January 19, 2026, and signed by 11 board members, was titled “Vote of No Confidence in the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman.”

It accused the former chairman of financial indiscipline, lack of transparency, and repeatedly approving expenditures and awarding contracts without board approval and beyond approved budgetary limits.

The board further alleged that Usman was under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and that his actions constituted serious breaches of financial governance. It also claimed that he approved Hajj-related contracts 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, “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, 9 February 2026.

“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 profound respect for the sacred responsibilities of public service.”

He disclosed that, in line with Section 3(6) of the NAHCON (Establishment) Act, 2006, he had formally 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 throughout his tenure.

He also thanked members of the NAHCON board, management and staff, state pilgrims’ welfare agencies, tour operators, aviation and service providers, and Nigerian officials in Saudi Arabia for their cooperation.

Reiterating his stance, he said his resignation was “driven purely by personal considerations” and did not reflect any dissatisfaction with the commission or the Federal Government.

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