Prof Abdullahi Usman, NAHCON chairman, has resigned amid a deepening EFCC probe over alleged multi-billion-naira fraud in 2025 Hajj operations
NAHCON Chairman Prof Abdullahi Usman Resigns Amid EFCC Multi-Billion Fraud Probe
In a major shake-up at Nigeria’s Hajj management body, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman has resigned as Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). The development was confirmed late Monday night by his media assistant, Ahmed Muazu, to journalists.
No official reason was given for the resignation, but it comes amid intense scrutiny from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which is investigating alleged large-scale financial misconduct tied to the 2025 Hajj operations.
Prof Usman was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in 2024, succeeding Jalal Arabi—who was removed over similar allegations of fund misappropriation. His brief tenure overseeing the 2025 pilgrimage was overshadowed by controversies, including claims of financial mismanagement that sparked internal divisions and public outrage.
The EFCC had previously detained Prof Usman along with other NAHCON directors over accusations of diverting and misappropriating funds exceeding N50 billion. Specific allegations include unauthorized spending of N25 billion on Masha’ir tents, N7.9 billion for contingency housing, and N1.6 billion on travel for officials’ spouses.
The probe also led to the detention of NAHCON’s Commissioner for Policy, Personnel, and Finance, Aliu Abdulrazak, and Director of Finance and Accounts, Aminu Y. Muhammed.
During an earlier House of Representatives public hearing, Prof Usman acknowledged internal issues, stating there were “dirty deals” within the organization but committed to supporting transparency efforts.
The crisis intensified in January 2026 when some NAHCON commissioners reportedly petitioned President Tinubu with a vote of no confidence in Usman, citing leadership failures, poor administration, extra-budgetary spending, and abuse of office. The petition highlighted that he was already under EFCC investigation.
Vice President Kashim Shettima intervened recently, convening a meeting with stakeholders to mediate and stabilize the commission.
Prof Usman’s resignation—confirmed as forced in some reports following board pressure and anti-corruption probes—leaves uncertainty over NAHCON’s leadership and preparations for the 2026 Hajj, when millions of Nigerian pilgrims are expected to undertake the sacred journey.
The EFCC investigation continues, with stakeholders calling for swift accountability to restore integrity to Nigeria’s Hajj operations. Read More
