Opinion: How Transparency at NAHCON Turned Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman into a Target

By Mustapha Muhammad Tukur Illo

The recent working visit of the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has exposed more than just an attempted financial scandal; it has laid bare the deep resistance to transparency within certain power circles surrounding the Hajj administration. By dismantling a calculated plot to misappropriate billions of naira earmarked for the 2026 Hajj, Professor Usman effectively crossed a red line for those who see public institutions as avenues for personal enrichment.

Available facts point to a coordinated attempt by some individuals, working alongside selected service providers, to deliberately downgrade the quality of services meant for Nigerian pilgrims. The plan was simple but sinister: alter existing contractual agreements, cut corners on accommodation, transportation, and welfare, and divert the excess funds into private hands. Had this scheme succeeded, thousands of pilgrims would have borne the cost through avoidable hardship, while a few benefitted illicitly.

Professor Usman’s response was firm and uncompromising. He refused to rubber-stamp altered agreements and insisted on full compliance with previously negotiated standards. More importantly, he did not return to Nigeria until he was satisfied that the plot had been completely neutralized and that concrete safeguards were established to protect pilgrims’ funds and welfare. His actions sent a clear message that under his watch, the Hajj would not be reduced to a money-making venture for opportunists.

However, it is precisely this insistence on transparency and accountability that appears to have triggered the recent internal rebellion against him. In an ironic twist, some board members of NAHCON reportedly passed a vote of no confidence on Professor Usman—not because of incompetence or failure, but because his transparent leadership style stood in the way of unchecked access to public funds. From an objective standpoint, the move raises serious questions: why would a chairman who blocked financial leakages and defended pilgrims’ interests suddenly be deemed unfit, unless powerful interests felt threatened?

The vote of no confidence, viewed through this lens, seems less about governance and more about clearing the path for financial impunity. Removing or weakening a chairman who insists on due process would make it easier for those with questionable intentions to operate without scrutiny, accountability, or resistance. In public institutions, such tactics are sadly familiar: when transparency becomes inconvenient, the reformer becomes the problem.

It is also not surprising that attempts to malign Professor Usman’s character or push for his removal began almost immediately after his intervention in Saudi Arabia. Those who lost access to easy money were bound to fight back, using institutional tools and political pressure to regain control.

In truth, Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman’s tenure represents a rare layer of protection for Nigerian pilgrims. His leadership underscores the uncomfortable reality that integrity in public office often attracts hostility from within. If Nigerians are serious about protecting public funds and ensuring a dignified Hajj experience, then actions taken against transparency-driven leadership should be critically examined—not applauded.

Silencing accountability today may enrich a few, but it will ultimately cost the nation, its institutions, and its citizens far more tomorrow.

mustyillo@gmail.com 

24th January 2026.

Inside Story: How nahcon Commissioners Allegedly Sold a No-Confidence Vote for Cash.

What was billed as a principled stand against mismanagement at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria now appears to have been something else entirely: a calculated transaction dressed up as institutional reform 

What unfolded at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria in recent was presented to the public as an act of conscience. A vote of no confidence. A claim of moral concern. A board rising to defend pilgrims and process.

Multiple sources with direct knowledge of events inside the Commission describe a board that did not challenge power but auctioned it. According to these accounts, the move against the Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, known as “Pakistan,” was not driven by governance failures or policy breaches. It was driven by inducement.

Sources say a commissioner was at the forefront of the agenda to write the vote of no confidence for the chair after collecting huge sums from a service provider that felt threatened by the chairman and board members were approached individually and assured of payment in exchange for a coordinated position against the Chairman. The figures mentioned are strikingly consistent across accounts. $20,000 thousand dollars for board members. Up to $40,000 thousand dollars for permanent commissioners. The payments, sources allege, were framed as appreciation, not bribery, but the expectation was clear. Fall in line or be left out.

One senior official familiar with the process described the board’s conduct as “embarrassingly transactional.”

“These were not deliberations,” the official said. “They were negotiations.”

Investigators tracing the origin of the plot point to a commercial interest with a lot to lose. An air carrier with an active bid before the Commission. The bid, according to regulatory insiders, carried implications that could have strained Nigeria’s relationship with Saudi authorities. The Chairman refused to endorse it. He insisted on procedure. He insisted on caution. That refusal, sources say, sealed his fate.

Another source who described the scene as public display of self embarrassment stated that for the fact that the board have submitted the letter to the president and did not wait for Mr president’s action, yet leaked the letter to journalist and even are sponsoring the media campaign says a lot about the rush to deliver on what their paymaster is bidding for.

“The most damaging aspect of the episode is not the allegation of bribery alone. It is the apparent ease with which a statutory board abandoned its responsibility. Commissioners entrusted with oversight allegedly reduced their mandate to a price tag. Those expected to protect public interest are accused of trading it away without hesitation.” He mentioned 

“Sudden unity where there had been none surprises everyone, they unite after money was involved. The Coordinated outrage. For an institution that manages one of the most sensitive and costly religious operations in the country, the implications are severe. This is not a story about a chairman under fire. It is a story about commissioners and board members who, according to those closest to the events, chose personal gain over duty and then wrapped that choice in the language of accountability.

Until an independent investigation exposes the financial trails and private communications behind the vote, the Commission will remain under a cloud. But one conclusion is already difficult to escape. The loudest voices claiming to defend integrity may be the ones most determined to sell it.

AN OPEN LETTER TO HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU (GCFR)

​Your Excellency,

​As the custodian of our national trust and the leader of Nigeria’s reform agenda, we bring to your urgent attention the unfolding crisis behind the scenes at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). The battle being fought today is not a mere administrative disagreement; it is a full-scale war launched by "entrenched interest networks" to sabotage any attempt to sanitize pilgrims' funds from systematic looting.

​Your Excellency, in the interest of truth and justice, we present the following technical facts:

​1. The Myth of Individual Responsibility vs. Financial Controls:

The current Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, is facing a coordinated character assassination campaign by certain Board members. We must ask: How can the Chairman be solely accused of financial mismanagement when the "Approving Officer" (Commissioner of Finance/PPMF), the Accounts Department, and Internal Audit must all sign off on every transaction?

Under the NAHCON Act, not a single Naira can be spent without the signature of the relevant Commissioner. If corruption exists, why is the "Authorizing Officer" targeted while the "Executing Officer" is exonerated? Targeting the Chairman alone is a transparent attempt to shield the "Old Guard," some of whom still face unresolved EFCC charges from previous administrations.

​2. The Triangle of "Mashariq – Shuraka’ul Khair – and the Middlemen":

The heart of this crisis lies in the Chairman’s refusal to bow to the extortion of external service providers like "Mashariq Dhahabiyya" and their local affiliates. Our findings indicate the existence of a cross-border "Syndicate" involving former commissioners and high-ranking officials in state and regional offices. They act as middlemen for these firms to secure monopoly contracts in exchange for massive kickbacks—all extracted from the sweat of Nigerian pilgrims.

​3. Exploiting Political Influence to Cover Corruption:

Regrettably, this "Syndicate" enjoys the protection of certain individuals in sensitive offices who seek to thwart any reform that cuts off the "rent-seeking" pipelines they have long enjoyed. They are attempting to professionally assassinate the Chairman because he dared to demand transparency and direct contracting, which eliminates these "brokers."

​Your Excellency, our demands for justice are as follows:

​First: Immediate intervention to purge the NAHCON Board of any member with unresolved corruption cases or EFCC investigations to ensure the office is not used to obstruct reform.

​Second: The establishment of a high-powered investigative panel under your office to probe the "interest links" between external service providers and middlemen within state offices.

​Third: Protecting the Commission's independence to dismantle the corrupt supply chains that have turned pilgrims' money into a source of embezzlement.

​Your Excellency,

Nigeria deserves an administration that protects the dignity of the pilgrim. We trust in your justice and firmness to strike the hands of the corrupt and restore order before the 2026 Hajj season is swallowed by these selfish conflicts.

​May God guide you to the truth and grant you victory over the unjust.

​

NAHCON Chairman’s Stand for Justice and Pilgrim Welfare Deserves National Support - By Sa'idu Audu

The integrity of Nigeria’s Hajj operations depends not only on strong policies but also on principled leadership that places the welfare of pilgrims above all other considerations. 

In recent developments surrounding the administration of the Hajj, the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has continued to demonstrate a firm and consistent commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of pilgrims’ rights.

Observers of the process will agree that managing the complexities of Hajj logistics, international coordination, and service delivery requires not only administrative competence but also moral courage. 

It is in this context that Professor Usman’s stance against injustice and exploitation stands out as both timely and commendable.

From the outset, his position has remained clear and unwavering:

1.He does not tolerate any form of injustice against pilgrims.

2.He does not permit Nigerian pilgrims to be subjected to hardship.

3.He does not allow harassment, undue restriction, or the violation of pilgrims’ dignity.

4.He does not approve of accommodations that place pilgrims far from the Holy Mosque.

Beyond these guiding principles, his leadership has been anchored on promoting transparency and ethical conduct within the system. 

His focus has been to ensure that staff and service providers operate within the framework of lawful and moral standards, thereby safeguarding the sanctity of the pilgrimage and the trust placed in the Commission by the Nigerian public.

However, as with many reform-driven initiatives, such efforts often attract resistance from individuals who seek to benefit from improper practices. These challenges underscore the importance of collective responsibility in supporting reforms that prioritize fairness, service, and the greater good.

Truth, it must be emphasized, is not a weapon it is the foundation of justice and social harmony. The responsibility of ensuring a successful and dignified Hajj does not rest solely on the shoulders of leadership; it is a shared duty that calls for integrity from all stakeholders involved.

At this critical juncture, it is fitting to extend words of encouragement and prayers to Professor Usman and his team, asking for continued wisdom, protection, and strength as they carry forward the task of serving Nigerian pilgrims.

May justice prevail, may the journey of every pilgrim be eased, and may this sacred responsibility continue to be fulfilled with sincerity and devotion.

Civil Society Coalition Calls for Resignation of NAHCON Board Members Over Governance Crisis

A coalition of civil society organisations has called for the resignation of certain members of the Board of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), citing concerns over governance, accountability, and institutional stability at the Commission.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by Muhammad Nda Auwal, the coalition said it reviewed the ongoing dispute within NAHCON and expressed alarm over the conduct of some Board members, warning that the situation could erode public trust, disrupt Hajj preparations, and damage Nigeria’s international standing.

The group stated that Board members who are subjects of ongoing or inherited cases with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) lack the moral authority to sit in judgment over the management of the Commission.

According to the statement, unresolved integrity issues undermine the credibility of any oversight role and render allegations against NAHCON’s management questionable.

The coalition faulted what it described as vague accusations and public insinuations made without evidence, noting that no specific dates, transactions, contract references, or audit queries have been presented to substantiate claims of misconduct.

The group further outlined what it described as established operational facts within NAHCON, including that all financial transactions require endorsements from the Commissioner in charge of Planning, Research, Statistics, Monitoring and Finance (PPMF), Accounts, and Internal Audit before payments are made.

It added that procurement decisions at the Commission are committee-based, properly documented, and subject to statutory review, stressing that cases allegedly linked to the EFCC were inherited and involved some Commissioners who are now, according to the coalition, positioning themselves as moral arbiters.

The statement also maintained that Board members have no statutory power under the NAHCON Act to pass or communicate a vote of no confidence in the Chairman of the Commission.

Beyond the dispute, the coalition accused some Board members of engaging in acts of internal sabotage, including unauthorized postings, issuance of official correspondence without executive approval, defiance of lawful directives, and attempts to assume operational roles not provided for by law.

It described such actions as insubordination and institutional vandalism capable of destabilizing the Commission.

The coalition therefore demanded the immediate resignation of all Board members with pending or inherited EFCC cases, arguing that oversight cannot be credible under the cloud of unresolved investigations.

It also called for the resignation of any Board member involved in issuing what it described as an unlawful vote of no confidence, insisting that accountability must begin with those who claim to uphold it.

“Nigeria’s Hajj administration is not a battleground for personal ambition or power struggles,” the statement read, adding that the Commission represents a national trust involving lives, diplomacy, and international obligations.

The group urged the Presidency and relevant authorities to intervene in the national interest, stressing the need for stability at NAHCON and strict adherence to the rule of law.

Governor Yusuf Commends Kano Police for Swift Arrest of Suspects in Killing of Housewife and Children

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has commended the Kano State Police Command for its swift and professional response that led to the arrest of suspects involved in the brutal killing of a housewife and her children in Dorayi Quarters, Kano.

This was contained in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa on Sunday.

Governor Yusuf described the prompt action of the police as a clear demonstration of commitment and courage in protecting the lives and property of the people of Kano State.

He said the horrific incident, which claimed the lives of an innocent mother and her children, deeply saddened the state, but the speed with which the suspects were tracked and arrested has restored public confidence in the security agencies.

The governor praised the Commissioner of Police and officers involved for deploying intelligence-led operations that led to the breakthrough, stressing that such professionalism must be sustained to deter criminals.

Governor Yusuf assured that his administration will continue to support the police and other security agencies with the needed logistics and cooperation to ensure that criminals have no hiding place in Kano State.

He also called on residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, noting that community cooperation remains key to sustaining peace.

The governor directed that the suspects be thoroughly investigated and diligently prosecuted to ensure justice for the victims and serve as a deterrent to others.

Kano State Government Announces Schools Resumption Dates

The Kano State Government has announced the official resumption dates for schools across the state for the commencement of the second term of 2025/2026 academic session.

According to the announcement, boarding schools are to resume on Sunday, 18th January 2026, while day students are to resume on Monday, 19th January 2026. This directive applies to all public, private, and voluntary schools operating within the state.

Parents and guardians of boarding students are advised to ensure that their wards return to school as early as possible and before evening on the stipulated resumption dates to allow for proper settling and preparation for academic activities.

Furthermore, all heads of schools and teachers have been directed to ensure that teaching and learning commence on Monday, 19th January 2026, without fail. School proprietors and administrators are expected to put all necessary measures in place to guarantee a smooth and orderly resumption.

In a goodwill message, the Commissioner of Education, Gwani Dr Ali Haruna Makoda, through the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Bashir Baffa Muhammad, extended his best wishes to parents, teachers, and students for a successful and productive academic term. He called for continued cooperation and commitment from all stakeholders in order to sustain discipline, promote learning, and achieve the shared goal of educational excellence in the state.

He reiterates Government’s commitment to maintaining academic discipline and promoting quality education across all categories of schools in the state.

ARD AKTH branch set to resume suspended indefinite strike Monday - By Ado Salisu

The Association of Resident Doctors, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (ARD AKTH), Kano, has formally directed it's members to resume the suspended indefinite strike following the failure of federal government to address on the prevailing challenges confronting resident doctors nationwide.

The chairman's ARD AKTH chapter, Dr. Aminu Bello Aminu said that following extensive deliberations and in strict alignment with the directive of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), the ARD AKTH hereby declares its decision to join the Total and Indefinite Consolidated Strike (TICS 2.0).

Speaking with newsmen in Kano, Dr. Aminu said that the strike action is scheduled to commence by 12:00 midnight on Monday, 12th January 2026.

 He explained that the decision was not taken lightly. It follows prolonged engagement, repeated assurances, and persistent failure by relevant authorities to address critical welfare, training, and remuneration concerns affecting resident doctors and the healthcare system.

The chairman revealed that the demands include clear, legitimate, and long overdue,I mmediate reinstatement of the FTH Lokoja Five and payment of all outstanding promotion and salary arrears.

He added that others are implementation of the approved professional allowance table, with arrears captured in the 2026 Federal Budget and official clarification by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to Chief Executives on skipping and entry-level placement issues as well as re-introduction and full implementation of the Specialist Allowance.

''Resolution of House Officers’ salary delays and arrears, with issuance of a clear pay advisory, re-categorization of membership certificates and issuance of certificates post Part I examinations by the NPMCN, immediate commencement of locum practice and work-hours regulation committees and resumption and timely conclusion of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) process,'' he said.

Dr Aminu said that the continued neglect of these issues poses serious risks to healthcare delivery, workforce morale, and patient safety, adding that the Resident doctors cannot continue to function optimally in an environment of uncertainty and unfulfilled commitments.

The chairman said ARD AKTH remains open to genuine, concrete, and time-bound negotiations, but until meaningful progress is achieved, we stand in full solidarity with NARD and resident doctors nationwide.

NAHCON under Scrutiny Over Alleged Rule Violation and Strategic Manipulation By the Commissioner of Operations

Recent allegations emerging from within the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) have raised serious concerns about administrative conduct and adherence to due process, particularly involving Commissioner Elegushi. 

Multiple internal sources allege that clear directives issued from the Office of the Vice President regarding personnel management have been disregarded, prompting growing unease among staff and stakeholders committed to institutional integrity.

According to these accounts, the commissioner is accused of retaining individuals who are no longer eligible for service, including retired staff and a former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, in direct contradiction to established civil service regulations and explicit instructions reportedly issued at the highest level of government. 

Insiders describe this as a deliberate act that undermines both the authority of the Vice President and the rule-based governance framework guiding federal institutions.

Further compounding these concerns are claims that internal enforcement mechanisms have been compromised. Sources allege that the officer responsible for upholding personnel and financial management rules has failed to act, allegedly overlooking clear violations. 

This perceived inaction has fueled suspicions of institutional capture and has intensified calls for urgent external oversight to prevent further erosion of accountability within the commission.

In addition, staff members allege that Commissioner Elegushi, who is widely believed to be positioning himself for the chairmanship of NAHCON, has begun exerting undue influence over key strategic postings. Of particular concern is the reported redeployment of Halidu Shutti as Director of Human Resources, a move insiders claim aligns with a broader effort to consolidate power within the commission and advance a narrow, divisive agenda that could undermine meritocracy and national balance.

In light of these troubling allegations, stakeholders are calling on the Office of the Vice President to urgently review the situation and intervene where necessary to safeguard institutional integrity, ensure compliance with federal directives, and reaffirm the principles of transparency and fairness. 

It is only through decisive and impartial action that public confidence in NAHCON’s leadership and operations can be restored and protected.