By Gambo Tanko
Since the appointment of Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), a wave of calculated misinformation and media attacks has been unleashed by faceless individuals whose sole mission is to tarnish the image of the revered Islamic scholar and derail the progress of Hajj administration in Nigeria.
These enemies of reform are not just opposing a man — they are indirectly working against the spiritual aspirations of thousands of Nigerian Muslims who depend on a transparent, efficient, and affordable Hajj service. Hajj is not just a government program; it is one of the five pillars of Islam. So, one must ask: what do they stand to gain by sabotaging such a sacred obligation?
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The Motive Behind the Attacks
It is clear that the motives of these detractors are deeply rooted in self-interest, political rivalry, and fear of change. Since assuming office, Professor Abdullahi Saleh has introduced bold digital reforms, eliminated long-standing bottlenecks, and resisted undue influence in staff selection — a move that has unsettled certain individuals and groups who benefitted from the old, corrupt system.
The recent wave of one-sided, unverified reports — including the misleading story on the 2025 Hajj team selection — is a typical example of their desperation. These reports are not born out of concern for the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims; they are a product of bitterness by those whose illegal privileges have been blocked.
Plots Beyond Nigeria’s Shores
There are unconfirmed but troubling reports suggesting that these so-called Muslims, who cloak themselves in religion but act against its interests, have devised multiple strategies to undermine the success of Hajj operations — not just in Nigeria, but even in the Holy Land. Allegedly, they have been holding secret meetings with certain tour operators, airlines, service providers, and other Hajj stakeholders to frustrate the efforts of the Commission.
Do they truly believe Allah will allow such evil plans to succeed? Insha’Allah, all their plots against Islam and the sacred Hajj mission will fail. For those who conspire to harm this noble cause, may Allah turn their schemes against them.
A Question of Integrity and Hypocrisy
Ironically, most of the media platforms used to promote these narratives are owned or operated by Muslims. This raises a painful question: are these outfits truly upholding Islamic values and ethical journalism, or have they become instruments of financial gain and political manipulation?
It is regrettable that at a time when we should be supporting a sincere reformer in a critical religious assignment, some have chosen to work against him using fabricated lies and calculated distractions. Professor Saleh is not NAHCON — he is simply a servant of the Ummah, committed to restoring integrity to the system. His loyalty lies with the pilgrims, not with vested interests.
A Legacy in the Making
Despite the noise, Professor Abdullahi Saleh remains focused on his divine mission to reform the Hajj industry and position Nigeria as a model in Hajj administration globally. His efforts have already begun to attract respect from Saudi authorities and international stakeholders, thanks to his transparency, humility, and firm grasp of both the spiritual and operational components of Hajj.
By Allah’s will, and with the prayers of well-meaning Nigerians, these enemies of progress will not succeed. Professor Saleh will, insha’Allah, complete his tenure — and possibly continue to serve, if Allah so wills and the leadership deems fit.
Hajj is not about politics or power. It is about faith, unity, and service to the Ummah. We must not allow ourselves to become pawns in the hands of those who seek to divide us and sabotage a sacred obligation.
