Sheikh Abdullahi Saleh Pakistan has resigned from his position as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), ending a controversial tenure that attracted intense scrutiny from government officials, stakeholders in the Hajj industry, and international partners.
The resignation was confirmed in Abuja on Tuesday, following days of mounting pressure from within the commission and reports of high-level intervention by the Presidency. Sources familiar with the development said the decision came after prolonged internal disagreements and concerns over the administration of the commission.
Sheikh Pakistan, who was appointed Chairman of NAHCON in October 2024 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had faced sustained criticism over his leadership style and management of the commission’s affairs, particularly as preparations for subsequent Hajj operations intensified.
Central to the crisis were allegations of financial mismanagement and abuse of office. Critics accused the former chairman of authorising expenditures without due process and mismanaging funds meant for Hajj operations, claims that reportedly drew the attention of anti-corruption agencies, though no official conclusion has been made public.
Tensions within NAHCON escalated earlier in 2026 when all serving commissioners reportedly passed a vote of no confidence in Sheikh Pakistan’s leadership and formally petitioned the President, warning that his continued stay in office could jeopardise Nigeria’s Hajj arrangements and international standing.
The situation was further complicated by reports of strained relations between NAHCON and Saudi Arabian Hajj authorities, with concerns that Nigeria’s operational credibility and coordination with the Kingdom’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah were being affected.
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Reactions to the resignation have been mixed. While some stakeholders within the commission expressed relief and optimism that the development would restore stability and professionalism, others called for thorough investigations to address the allegations that trailed the outgoing chairman.
Hajj operators and stakeholders within Nigeria’s Muslim community have urged the Federal Government to act swiftly in appointing a competent replacement to avoid disruptions to upcoming Hajj exercises, stressing the importance of continuity and transparency in the commission’s leadership.
The Federal Government is yet to issue an official statement detailing the circumstances surrounding the resignation, but indications suggest that an interim leadership arrangement may be announced in the coming days to ensure that NAHCON’s operations continue smoothly.
As Nigeria prepares for future Hajj exercises, the resignation of Sheikh Abdullahi Saleh Pakistan marks a significant turning point for the National Hajj Commission, with expectations high that new leadership will rebuild trust, strengthen oversight, and restore confidence among pilgrims, stakeholders, and international partners.
