By Fatima Sanda Usara

The Kogi State Council of Ulama of Nigeria has thrown its weight behind the newly appointed Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, describing his emergence as a product of merit and moral credibility.

The endorsement came during a courtesy visit to the NAHCON headquarters in Abuja, where a delegation led by the Council’s Chairman, Sheikh Salman Adam Imam, congratulated the new helmsman and offered prayers for a successful tenure.

In a statement presented during the visit, the Council noted that Yusuf’s appointment was underpinned by a “distinguished career, tested administrative competence and enduring contributions to ethical development,” adding that his track record positions him to steer the Commission at a critical juncture.

The clerics further underscored the symbolic significance of his emergence, pointing out that Yusuf is the first indigene of Kogi State—and indeed the North-central geopolitical zone—to head the Commission since its establishment nearly three decades ago.

Describing the appointment as a moment of collective pride, the Council extended congratulations to the Muslim Ummah nationwide, with particular reference to the people of Kogi State and the North-central region.

The group also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it termed a “well-considered decision,” voicing confidence that the new chairman’s experience and leadership acumen would reposition NAHCON and restore institutional confidence.

It called on the Commission’s management and staff, as well as stakeholders across the Muslim community, to rally behind Yusuf in a concerted effort to address systemic challenges and reinvigorate the agency’s operational efficiency.

A formal letter of congratulations was presented to the chairman during the visit.

Responding, Ambassador Yusuf conveyed gratitude for the show of solidarity, describing the visit as both humbling and encouraging. He pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him, assuring that his leadership would strive to surpass expectations and deliver measurable improvements in the Commission’s performance.

Prayers were thereafter offered for the success of his tenure and the overall progress of the Commission.

Source: NAHCON