President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Ismail Abba Yusuf as the new chairman and chief executive officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
Gatekeepers News reports that the appointment was confirmed in a statement released on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy.
According to the statement, Yusuf will oversee the coordination and regulation of Nigeria’s Hajj operations, including pilgrimage logistics, welfare of pilgrims, and engagement with Saudi authorities.
Yusuf’s appointment follows the resignation of Abdullahi Usman, the former NAHCON chairman, who stepped down from office on Monday. His exit created a leadership vacancy at the commission at a time when preparations are ongoing for upcoming Hajj operations.
The new NAHCON boss is a seasoned diplomat and public administrator who previously served as Nigeria’s ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary to the Republic of Türkiye between 2021 and 2024. During his tenure, he was involved in strengthening diplomatic relations, economic cooperation, and cultural exchanges between Nigeria and Türkiye.
Yusuf is also known for his experience in public service and international relations, which officials say will be vital in improving pilgrimage planning, ensuring transparency, and enhancing service delivery for Nigerian pilgrims.
The presidency expressed confidence that Yusuf’s leadership will contribute to more efficient management of Hajj operations and improved welfare for pilgrims in line with the administration’s reform agenda.
