CSO Urges Stability For 2026 Hajj Amid NAHCON Chairman’s Resignation

Following the resignation of Professor Abdullahi Usman Saleh as Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), a Civil Society Organisation (CSO), Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), has called for careful consideration in appointing an interim leader to ensure the smooth running of the 2026 Hajj operations.

Professor Saleh, who cited personal reasons for his departure, announced his resignation, effective Monday, 9th February 2026, in a statement on Tuesday.

He clarified that his decision was not due to dissatisfaction with NAHCON, the Federal Government, or the Commission’s mandate, and he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

However, the resignation comes amid reports of internal and external pressures that have impeded smooth operations since his appointment. LEADERSHIP reliably gathered that the resignation was not a surprise to stakeholders, particularly as it followed a vote of no confidence passed by 11 board members recently.

In a letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu dated 19th January, the board members cited “prolonged internal observations, repeated efforts at corrective engagement, and persistent leadership failures” as reasons for their lack of confidence.

The IHR has urged President Tinubu to appoint a competent individual, free of corruption allegations, from within the existing operational team to serve as the acting NAHCON leader. IHR National Coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammad, stated: “Such a decision will guarantee continuity and prevent avoidable disruptions, pending the appointment of a substantive chairman with proven experience and a credible track record in Hajj administration.”

The recommendation stems from the fact that major arrangements for the 2026 Hajj, including pilgrim registration and logistics, are already in advanced stages.