The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has received the General IBM Haruna Strategic Leadership Award in recognition of his contributions to Hajj administration and the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.
The award was conferred by the publishers of Our Nigeria magazine at its seventh annual awards ceremony, held at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja. Organisers said the honour reflects Professor Usman’s record of institutional reform, administrative discipline and sustained commitment to improving pilgrim welfare.
In his acceptance remarks, Professor Usman dedicated the award to the staff of the Commission, describing 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. Renewal comes from our continuous effort to improve Hajj administration in line with global best practices and the trust placed in us by the Nigerian people.”
He further noted that the honour belongs to staff across all levels of the Commission, including Board members, management, personnel at the headquarters, zonal and outreach offices, as well as support units, whose efforts, he said, often go unnoticed by the public.
Professor Usman was honoured alongside several public officials and leaders, including the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara; the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa; and other Nigerian and international recipients recognised for leadership and service in their respective fields.
Ahmad Muazu
Technical Assistant (Media)
Office of the Chairman/CEO, NAHCON
