Tinubu Nominates Former Envoy Ismail Abba Yusuf as NAHCON Chairman/CEO
By Abdallahi Yusuf
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf as the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), subject to confirmation by the Senate.
The nomination, in line with Section 3(2) of the NAHCON Act, 2006, was conveyed in a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday, with the President requesting swift legislative approval.
Ambassador Yusuf is expected to replace Professor Abdullahi Usman, who recently resigned from the position after serving for about 14 months.
The nominee is a seasoned Nigerian diplomat with extensive experience in foreign service. He previously served as Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Türkiye between 2021 and 2024, where he was credited with strengthening bilateral relations and advancing Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic interests.
If confirmed by the Senate, Ambassador Yusuf will assume leadership of NAHCON at a critical period, as the commission continues preparations and coordination for upcoming Hajj operations, including pilgrim welfare, logistics, and engagements with Saudi Arabian authorities.
The development follows ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to ensure efficient management of Hajj affairs and improved service delivery to Nigerian pilgrims.
The Senate is expected to commence consideration of the nomination in the coming days.