The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has been awarded the General IBM Haruna Strategic Leadership Award by the publishers of Our Nigeria magazine, in recognition of his contributions to Hajj administration and pilgrim welfare in Nigeria.
The award was presented at the magazine’s seventh annual awards ceremony, held at the Ladi Kwali Hall in Abuja. Organizers said the recognition reflects Professor Usman’s record of institutional reform, administrative discipline, and sustained focus on the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.
In his acceptance remarks, Professor Usman dedicated the award to the staff of the Commission, describing them as central to the Commission’s achievements.
“This recognition is not for one individual. It reflects collective commitment, sacrifice, and steadfast service,” he said. “NAHCON operates in a space that demands responsibility, patience, transparency, and deep concern for the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims. What is often described as resilience is, in reality, the daily dedication of our workforce. Renewal comes from our continuous effort to improve Hajj administration in line with global best practices and the trust placed in us by the Nigerian people.”
He added that the award is dedicated to NAHCON staff across all levels of the Commission, including Board members, management, those at the headquarters, zonal and outreach offices, and support units, whose work, he noted, is often conducted outside public view.
Professor Usman was honored alongside several public officials and leaders, including the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and other Nigerian and international recipients recognized for service and leadership in their respective fields.