The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has been honoured with the General IBM Haruna Strategic Leadership Award in recognition of his contributions to Hajj administration and pilgrim welfare in Nigeria.
The award was presented by the publishers of Our Nigeria magazine at the organisation’s seventh annual awards ceremony, held at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja. Organisers said the honour reflects Professor Usman’s commitment to institutional reform, administrative discipline, and sustained focus on the wellbeing of Nigerian pilgrims.
In his acceptance remarks, Professor Usman dedicated the award to the staff of the Commission, described them as the backbone of NAHCON’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.”
He added that continuous improvement in line with global best practices and public trust remained central to the Commission’s mandate.
Professor Usman further dedicated the award to NAHCON staff at all levels, including Board members, management, headquarters personnel, zonal and outreach offices, and support units, whose efforts, he noted, often go unnoticed by the public.
The NAHCON boss was honoured alongside several prominent public officials and leaders, including the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, and the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, as well as other Nigerian and international award recipients recognised for excellence in leadership and service.
The award ceremony celebrated individuals and institutions that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to national development and good governance.
