Transformative Appointments To Chart A New Course For The National Hajj Commission Of Nigeria (Nahcon) By His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

In the noble pursuit of facilitating Hajj and Umrah travels for Nigerian Muslims, the recent board appointments by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) for NAHCON are both strategic and commendable. The gravity of the responsibility associated with Hajj administration requires a team that embodies competence and moral integrity. JNI therefore commends the FGN for its foresight in selecting individuals with both academic prowess and a strong moral compass. Distinguished academics and Ulama’ such as Professors A. A.Yagawal, M. U. Ndagi, Fodio I. Musa, Mahfouz Adedimeji, Sheikh Bn Uthman and Dr. Tajudeen Oladejo Abefe, alongside the inclusion of two women in the board, promises valuable insights in steering the commission through potential challenges. More so, Professors Yagawal and Ndagi as Arabists, and Dr. Tajudeen as Islamic studies academic, hopefully shall ensure a diverse and capable team.

It is paramount that the commission’s Chairman/CEO recognizes the rare competence within the board and fosters a collaborative environment, by leveraging the expertise of the esteemed individuals on the board. The commission can realise its objectives and positively transform the narrative surrounding Hajj administration in Nigeria. This is because four out of the appointed board members are leading Jumu’ah(Friday) Imams. They present sermons to congregants onconsciousness of Allah, sincerity, probity, accountability, prudence and of course life after death, among many other themes and/or social norms. Now is the time to bring their wealth of experience to navigate the complexities of probity in the commission’s operations.

Acknowledging the enormity of the challenges ahead, the appointees are encouraged to commit themselves to collective decision-making, prayers, and above all, a deep sense of accountability to Allah, the Most High. Understanding the sanctity of Hajj, legalities, and the responsibilities it entails will guide the team in overcoming hurdles and building trust among stakeholders.

As the appointees embark on this crucial journey, the entire team is reminded of the significance of Hajj as an act of worship, emphasising the need to treat intended pilgrims as guests of Allah. Establishing trust and respect among stakeholders will catalyze a qualitative leap in ensuring the well-being of pilgrims during the Hajj and Umrah exercises.

Nonetheless, we commend the Federal Government for the apt appointment and calls for its unalloyed support to NAHCON, appreciating that Hajj is a pillar of Islam that remains sacred and we urge the Chairman and the commissioners so appointed to discharge their duties with utmost reverence and make allHajj that will happen under their stewardship come with ease and accepted. Amin.

May Allah, the Exceedingly Benevolent, ease the onerous assignment for the appointees, bringing tranquillity and success to Hajj administration in Nigeria. Amin.

Prof. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu

Secretary-General, JNI