Vice President Kashim Shettima has instructed the newly appointed National Chairman of the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, to immediately take up his role.
The directive was given pending the Senate’s screening and confirmation process.
In a letter dated September 5, 2024, and signed by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, the Vice President authorized Professor Usman to assume office as Acting Chairman of NAHCON.
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The letter titled, “Resumption of office in Ag Capacity addressed to Professor Saleh Usman,” reads: “I am directed by His Excellency, Senator Shetima, GCON, the Vice President, to convey the approval of your resumption of office as Chairman National Hajj Commission in an acting capacity with immediate effect, pending confirmation by the Senate after resumption from recess.
However, speaking at the organization’s 2024 Hajj Lectures and Awards event, the National Coordinator of the Independent Hajj Reporters, Muhammed Ibrahim highlighted the urgency of the matter due to the approaching 2025 Hajj season.
He emphasized the importance of having a confirmed chairman in place to effectively manage Nigeria’s Hajj operations.
“According to the Saudi Arabian 2025 Hajj calendar, we have 134 days to the commencement of pretty much ceasing and issuance of Hajj visas from today (last Wednesday).
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“The first set of 2025 Hajj pilgrims will arrive in Saudi Arabia on the 29th of April, 2025, which is approximately 237 days from today (last Wednesday).
The day of Arafat is projected to be on 5th June, which is 273 days from today (last Wednesday).
“More importantly, the commencement of contracts with Saudi-based service providers in service packages, choice and reservation of spaces in Mina begins on 23rd October 2024, less than 30 days from now,” Muhammed said.
Recall, President Tinubu confirmed Professor Usman’s appointment to the position on August 19, 2024, subject to Senate approval.
