The Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), Nigeria, has thrown its weight behind the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, offering special prayers and goodwill messages amid a growing controversy triggered by a petition seeking his removal.
In a statement posted on its official Facebook page on Wednesday, the Islamic organisation prayed for divine guidance, protection and success for the NAHCON chairman as he continues to oversee Nigeria’s Hajj operations.
JIBWIS prayed that Allah grants Professor Usman wisdom, steadfastness on the right path, leadership capacity and protection from individuals with malicious intentions, while blessing his efforts with enduring success.
The group described the responsibility entrusted to the NAHCON chairman as highly demanding, stressing that coordinating Nigeria’s Hajj affairs requires integrity, discipline, patience and divine support.
Support Comes Amid Boardroom Tensions
The prayers and endorsement come against the backdrop of internal tensions within NAHCON, following a petition reportedly submitted by some members of the commission’s board to the Presidency, calling for the removal of Professor Usman over alleged governance and administrative concerns.
The petition has since sparked public debate, drawing reactions from stakeholders, civil society actors and religious groups within and outside the Hajj sector.
The development has ignited widespread discourse, where a majority of commentators appear to have rallied behind the NAHCON chairman.
Nigerians Defend NAHCON Chairman
Across platforms many commenters described the petition as retaliatory, alleging it was sponsored by individuals uncomfortable with the chairman’s leadership style and strict enforcement of due process.
Several Nigerians argued that resistance often arises when public office holders clamp down on entrenched interests and insist on transparency in financial and administrative dealings.
Abubakar Siddi Damba wrote:
“When an official follows rules to the letter in his official dealings, he suffers such challenges from those corrupt elites who prefer business as usual.”
Similarly, Excellency Muhammad Suleiman commented:
“He blocked all kinds of corruption. That is why the petition was sent against him.”
Jamil Paaki added:
“The controversy itself shows he is reform-minded. He is fighting corruption, and I suggest his tenure be extended.”
Calls for Presidential Support, Board Reform
Some commentators went further, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to disregard the petition and instead strengthen the chairman’s position.
Aminu Magaji Gumel wrote:
“If I were the President, I would sack the board and appoint credible people to support this honest NAHCON Chairman.”
Echoing this view, Sabo Abdullahi Guri stated:
“The President should appoint the Chairman as sole administrator so he can continue his reforms without distractions.”
Commendation of Prof. Usman’s Reforms at NAHCON
Many supporters applauded Professor Usman’s leadership at NAHCON, crediting him with promoting transparency, enforcing accountability and restoring confidence in the management of Nigeria’s Hajj operations.
Salisu Rabiu Abu-Muhibbah wrote:
“Our Prof is not corrupt and he will not allow corruption to thrive under his watch. Insha Allah, he will continue to rise.”
Braman Rahim added:
“We are solidly behind our dedicated and hardworking chairman. May Allah grant him strength, wisdom and long life.”
Another commenter, Musa Lawal Abdullahi, noted:
“Since he assumed office, NAHCON has witnessed discipline and sanity. Those benefiting from the old system are uncomfortable with reforms.”
Zainab Ahmad Bello also wrote:
“For the first time, pilgrims’ welfare is being prioritised over personal interests. Professor Usman deserves encouragement, not distraction.”
Despite the overwhelming support, some voices urged caution and adherence to due process, stressing that allegations should be objectively examined.
Muhammad Rabiu wrote:
“We trust the Professor and see him as capable, but allegations should still be thoroughly investigated to clear all doubts.”
Others framed the controversy within Nigeria’s broader governance challenges. Hamisu Umar remarked:
“In Nigeria, when you fight corruption, corruption fights back with everything it has.”
Faith, Leadership and Public Trust
JIBWIS’ endorsement underscores the role of faith-based organisations in offering moral and spiritual backing to public office holders, particularly in sensitive religious assignments such as the Hajj.
As the debate continues, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman remains at the centre of a growing national conversation on reform, accountability and leadership within Nigeria’s Hajj administration one in which a significant segment of the public appears firmly aligned with his stewardship of NAHCON.
Leadership with Vision: Prof. Abdullahi Usman’s Impact at NAHCON
Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), has continued to demonstrate exemplary leadership marked by integrity, discipline and a clear commitment to reforming Nigeria’s Hajj administration.
Since assuming office, he has shown uncommon resolve in strengthening institutional processes, enforcing due process and placing the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims at the centre of policy and operational decisions.
Under his stewardship, NAHCON has recorded notable improvements in transparency, administrative coordination and stakeholder engagement. Professor Usman’s insistence on accountability and adherence to established guidelines has helped restore confidence in the Commission, particularly at a time when effective leadership is critical to managing the complex religious, logistical and diplomatic responsibilities associated with Hajj operations.
Beyond administration, Professor Usman has earned respect for his calm, principled and service-driven approach to public office. His leadership reflects a deep understanding of the sacred trust involved in managing Hajj affairs, combining professional competence with moral responsibility.
As he continues to steer NAHCON, his efforts stand as a testament to purposeful leadership and a genuine commitment to serving pilgrims and the nation with honour and dedication.