1. Shekh Abdullahi Saleh Pakistan
Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman is a Nigerian academic and public administrator serving as Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) since 2024. Appointed by President Bola Tinubu, he oversees the nation’s official management of pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia, a key aspect of Nigeria’s religious diplomacy and welfare operations.
Key facts
· Position: Executive Chairman/CEO, NAHCON
· Appointed: August 2024; confirmed October 2024
· Predecessor: Jalal Ahmed Arabi
· Education: University of Madinah; University of Peshawar; Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (PhD)
· Prior role: Chairman, Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board (2019–2023)
Background and Education
Professor Usman studied Islamic and Arabic scholarship at the University of Madinah and earned a Master’s degree in Islamic Studies from the University of Peshawar, Pakistan. He later completed his doctorate at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. Before his national appointment, he served as Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at Al-Qalam University, Katsina, and Visiting Lecturer at Al-Wafaq International University College, Ghana.
Appointment and Confirmation
President Tinubu named him NAHCON chairman in August 2024 following leadership changes at the commission. His appointment was ratified by the National Assembly on October 10, 2024, after Senate screening by the Committee on Foreign Affairs. He became the sixth person to hold the position, succeeding Arabi
Leadership at NAHCON
Assuming office amid operational and fiscal challenges, Usman emphasized transparency, efficiency, and welfare of pilgrims. His first year culminated in the 2025 Hajj—widely regarded as one of the most efficiently managed pilgrimages in Nigeria’s history. Achievements included timely visa issuance for over 52,000 pilgrims, early completion of flights, improved accommodation near Haram in Madinah, and enhanced medical and logistical support. He also initiated inter-faith collaboration by hosting the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission chairman to foster unity.
Recognition and Outlook
Professor Usman is noted for reforming Hajj administration through innovation and stakeholder engagement across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. His tenure has been credited with restoring credibility to the Commission and setting new benchmarks for pilgrimage management. He continues to advocate early preparations, digitalization, and pilgrims’ welfare as central to future Hajj operations
