By Folayimika Akanbi
Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman has resigned as the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
Wind Gate News gathered that Saleh threw in the towel following allegations of abuse of office and corrupt practices at the behest of members of the board of the commission.
Board members of the commission numbering 11 had, in a petition, dated 19 January 2026, and titled Vote of No Confidence in the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, alleged the latter of unwholesome practices.
The petition stated that the board’s decision followed prolonged internal observations and repeated efforts at corrective engagement, noting that persistent leadership failures had compromised the credibility, stability, and operational effectiveness of the commission.
It alleged financial indiscipline, lack of transparency, and repeated expenditure of funds and award of contracts without board approval, exceeding budgetary limits.
The petition accused the chairman of awarding Hajj-related contracts in violation of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) Act and due process, undermining transparency, fairness, and value for money, while exposing the commission to legal, financial, and reputational risks.
It noted, “These actions constitute grave breaches of financial governance and are compounded by the fact that the chairman is currently under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).”
A NAHCON staff member, who craved anonymity, said the resignation of the commission chairman was not unconnected with the petition NAHCON board members wrote to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling for his removal over alleged abuses and other misconduct.
“Yes, he was forced to resign by the presidency following the petition against him. The commission has faced several controversies since his appointment. The presidency will announce a replacement soon,” the source said.
Daily Trust reports that the chairman’s last official engagement was a few days ago when he received Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq Al-Rabiah.
Visited 10 times, 1 visit(s) today
