States Pilgrims Welfare Boards Hail Ambassador Ismail Abba’s Appointment as NAHCON Chairman
By Auwal Ahmad Umar
The Forum of Executive Secretaries of States Pilgrims Welfare Boards has congratulated Ambassador Ismail Abba on his appointment as the new National Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
In a statement released by the Forum’s leadership, the Chairman, Mallam Idris Ahmed Almakura, alongside his Deputy, Faruk Yaro Enabo, described the appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as timely and well-merited. They said Ambassador Abba’s track record in public service, coupled with his experience in administration and international diplomacy, makes him well-suited to lead the Commission at this critical period.
The Forum expressed confidence that the new NAHCON Chairman would bring renewed energy and strategic direction to the management of Hajj and Umrah operations in Nigeria.
“We are confident that Ambassador Abba’s wealth of experience and proven integrity will further strengthen the Commission and enhance service delivery to Nigerian pilgrims,” the statement noted.
The Executive Secretaries also pledged their full cooperation and support, assuring the new leadership of their readiness to work collaboratively to ensure smooth coordination between NAHCON and state pilgrims’ welfare boards.
They emphasised the importance of synergy in improving pilgrims’ welfare, streamlining logistics, and ensuring the successful conduct of future Hajj and Umrah exercises.
While commending President Tinubu for what they described as a strategic appointment, the Forum encouraged Ambassador Abba to tap into the collective experience and grassroots structures of the state boards in advancing NAHCON’s mandate.
The Forum concluded by offering prayers for wisdom, strength, and guidance for the new chairman as he assumes responsibility for overseeing one of the country’s most significant religious obligations.

