February 11, (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu has nominated Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf as the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), the Presidency announced on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
The nomination, which requires Senate confirmation under Section 3(2) of the NAHCON Act 2006, was disclosed in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
President Tinubu has written to Senate President Godswill Akpabio requesting an expedited confirmation of Yusuf’s appointment to ensure a seamless transition for the 2026 Hajj operations.
A seasoned career diplomat, Ambassador Yusuf recently concluded his tour of duty as Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Türkiye, where he served from 2021 to 2024.
The appointment follows the resignation of Professor Abdullahi Usman, who stepped down on Monday, February 9, 2026, after serving approximately 14 months in office.
While Professor Usman cited personal reasons for his departure, his exit comes in the wake of internal pressures, including a vote of no confidence passed by 11 members of the NAHCON board on January 19, 2026.
The board members had petitioned the President, alleging financial indiscipline and a lack of transparency in the commission’s administrative style.
In his farewell message, Professor Usman clarified that his decision was made in good conscience and reflected no dissatisfaction with the government or the commission’s mandate.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for the opportunity to serve the Muslim Ummah.
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