Kogi Clerics Back NAHCON Chairman, Advocate Institutional Reforms
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The Kogi State Council of Ulama has endorsed the appointment of Amb. Ismail Abba Yusuf as Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), describing his emergence as merit-driven and reflective of strong moral credibility.
According to the NAHCON’s Deputy Director, Information and Publications Division, Fatima Sanda Usara, the endorsement was conveyed during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, where a delegation led by the Council’s Chairman, Salman Adam Imam, congratulated the new leadership and offered prayers for a successful tenure.
Presenting a formal statement, the Council said the appointment was anchored on a “distinguished career, tested administrative competence and enduring contributions to ethical development,” stressing that Yusuf’s track record positions him to lead the Commission at a critical phase in its evolution.
The clerics also highlighted the broader significance of the appointment, noting that Yusuf is the first indigene of Kogi State and the North-central geopolitical zone to head NAHCON since its establishment nearly 30 years ago.
They described the development as “a moment of collective pride” for the Muslim Ummah, particularly in Kogi State and the North-central region.
The Council further commended Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it termed a “well-considered decision,” expressing confidence that the new chairman’s leadership would “reposition NAHCON and restore institutional confidence.”
Calling for sector-wide alignment, the group urged NAHCON management, staff, and stakeholders to rally behind Yusuf to address systemic inefficiencies and enhance operational delivery.
“There is a need for collective commitment to reinvigorate the Commission’s performance and tackle longstanding challenges,” the statement added.
In his response, Amb. Yusuf expressed appreciation for the support, describing the visit as both “humbling and encouraging.”
He pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him, assuring that his administration would focus on delivering measurable improvements.
“My leadership will strive to surpass expectations and strengthen the Commission’s performance framework,” he said.
The visit concluded with prayers for the success of his tenure and the continued progress of the Commission.
