“The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one who gets the people to do the greatest things.”
— Ronald Reagan
This profound quote by former U.S. President Ronald Reagan aptly mirrors the leadership philosophy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, especially in his decision to appoint capable hands into sensitive national positions. Among such notable appointments is that of Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, fondly called “Pakistan,” as the sixth Executive Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) a choice widely hailed across Nigeria’s ethnic and religious spectrum.
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A native of Kano State and a distinguished professor of Islamic studies, Prof. Usman is not a stranger in public service. His tenure as the chief strategist and administrator of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board marked a transformative era in Hajj operations within the state. His leadership brought about operational efficiency, pilgrims’ satisfaction, and global recognition for the board as a model in the management of spiritual journey.
Today, as he pilots the affairs of NAHCON, Prof. Usman has seamlessly aligned himself with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu. He has made staff welfare a top priority, ensuring timely payment of entitlements, creating a conducive working atmosphere, and instituting clear-cut reforms to boost institutional morale and productivity.
Less than one year into office, Prof. Usman has recorded remarkable achievements that reflect both his vision and expertise:
1. Pilgrims’ Fare Relief: In a bold financial intervention, Prof. Usman facilitated a significant discount for the 2025 Hajj, shielding pilgrims from the full economic burden of a potential fare exceeding ₦10 million. This decision brought immense relief to thousands of intending pilgrims nationwide.
2. Proximity to the Haram: Recognizing the spiritual and physical strain of long-distance accommodation, NAHCON under Prof. Usman secured decent and strategically located lodgings within close proximity in Madina. This single gesture dramatically eased the spiritual experience for Nigerian pilgrims.
3. Restoration of Trust: Through transparent processes and effective communication, he has rebuilt public confidence in the Hajj system. His efforts have erased long-standing fears and complaints from pilgrims who once associated Hajj operations with disorganization and neglect.
4. Timely Airlift Completion: In a historic first, Nigeria, under Prof. Usman’s guidance, met the deadline set by Saudi authorities for the complete airlift of pilgrims. This timely execution not only demonstrated logistical competence but also protected Nigeria’s image on the global pilgrimage stage.
5. Early Preparation for 2026 Hajj: Prof. Usman has wasted no time in shifting attention to the next phase. Preparations for the 2026 Hajj are already in motion, with active collaborations between NAHCON and relevant stakeholders. The goal is to avert visa delays and flight disruptions that have plagued past exercises.
In every sense, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman exemplifies the qualities of a visionary leader. He is not merely occupying an office; he is redefining a system, inspiring a team, and delivering on a mandate that touches the spiritual core of millions.
As NAHCON enters a new phase of growth, it is clear that with Prof. Usman at the helm, the commission is not only fulfilling its purpose — it is setting the pace for excellence in public service.
Conclusion:
Nigeria is in dire need of leaders who combine academic brilliance with administrative grit, humility with action, and vision with delivery. In Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, the nation has found such a leader — a reformer with integrity, a scholar with heart, and a public servant who has turned a critical institution into a model of progress.