Abuja: The Kogi State Council of Ulama of Nigeria has expressed strong support for the newly appointed Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Amb. Ismail Yusuf, citing his merit and moral credibility as key factors in his selection.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the endorsement was announced in a statement released in Abuja on Sunday by Hajiya Fatima Usara, Deputy Director of the Information and Publications Division at NAHCON. The statement followed a courtesy visit by the clerics to the NAHCON headquarters in Abuja, where a delegation led by the Council’s Chairman, Sheikh Salman Adam Imam, extended their congratulations to Yusuf and offered prayers for his successful tenure.
The council highlighted Yusuf’s distinguished career and administrative competence as vital to his appointment, noting his significant contributions to ethical development. They emphasized his track record as essential for steering the Commission during a pivotal period.
Moreover, the clerics underscored the symbolic importance of Yusuf’s appointment, marking him as the first individual from Kogi State and the North-central geopolitical zone to lead the commission since its inception nearly three decades ago. This occasion was noted as a moment of collective pride, with congratulations extended to the Muslim Ummah across Nigeria, particularly in Kogi and the North-central region.
The group also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what they deemed a well-considered decision, expressing confidence in Yusuf’s experience and leadership skills to reposition NAHCON and rebuild institutional trust. They urged the commission’s management, staff, and stakeholders within the Muslim community to unite in supporting Yusuf to tackle systemic challenges and enhance the agency’s operational effectiveness.
During the visit, a formal letter of congratulations was presented to Yusuf, followed by prayers for his successful tenure and the overall progress of the commission.
In response, Yusuf expressed his gratitude for the clerics’ support, describing the visit as humbling and encouraging. He pledged to live up to the expectations placed upon him, aiming to achieve significant improvements in the commission’s performance.