The House of Representatives Committee on Muslim Pilgrims has issued a stern directive to the leadership of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON.
The Chairman of the Committee, Honorable Jafaru Mohammed, who represents Agwara and Borgu Federal Constituency of Niger State, has mandated the newly appointed Chairman of NAHCON Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf to appear in person before the committee on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026. Failure to comply, he warned, will attract serious consequences from the House.
This follows the commission’s decision to send a representative to defend its 2026 budget, a move that lawmakers described as disrespectful to the National Assembly.
“Past chairmen of the commission have consistently avoided appearing in person”
“This behavior will no longer be tolerated. NAHCON is responsible for managing the affairs of Nigerian Muslim pilgrims in Makkah, and the committee has a constitutional duty to oversee its activities.” Jafaru said.
Members of the committee, including Honorable Shehu Ajilo, expressed disappointment over what they called NAHCON’s “nonchalant attitude” toward parliamentary invitations. They noted that while other agencies comply without difficulty, NAHCON often gives flimsy excuses.
“This attitude is unacceptable. The commission must respect the institution of the National Assembly.” Ajilo said.
The committee insists that NAHCON’s leadership must show accountability and transparency, especially in matters concerning the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims. All eyes are now on Tuesday’s session to see whether the new chairman will heed the call.
Recall that the former chairman Professor Abdullahi resigned a few weeks ago and was immediately replaced with Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf a career diplomat.
