I resigned as NAHCON chairman for personal reasons – Usman

Abdullahi Usman, the immediate past chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), has said his resignation was based strictly on personal reasons.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Usman clarified that his decision had nothing to do with dissatisfaction with the commission or the federal government.

According to him, he took the decision after careful reflection, prayers, and consultations with his family.

“I wish to state unequivocally that this decision is taken entirely for personal reasons. After prayerful contemplation and consultation with my family, I have made this choice in good conscience and with profound respect for the sacred responsibilities of public service,” he said.

Usman disclosed that he formally submitted his resignation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in line with Section 3(6) of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2006.

He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, describing his appointment as an honour. He also thanked Vice-President Kashim Shettima for his support during his tenure.

The former chairman further appreciated members of the NAHCON board, management and staff, as well as state pilgrims’ welfare agencies, tour operators, aviation and service providers, and Saudi Arabian authorities for their cooperation in Nigeria’s hajj operations.

Usman again stressed that his resignation was “purely by personal considerations” and prayed for the success of the commission’s new leadership.

President Tinubu appointed Usman as NAHCON chairman in August 2024 after the removal of Jalal Arabi, who was being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over alleged mismanagement of the N90 billion presidential subsidy for the 2024 hajj.

Usman had previously served as chairman of the Kano State Pilgrims’ Welfare Board before his appointment.

Meanwhile, the presidency is yet to announce a replacement following his resignation.