EFCC Probes National Hajj Commission Chairman Over Alleged N50 Billion Pilgrimage Scandal
- Saleh Abdullahi Usman, Chairman of NAHCON, is under investigation by the EFCC over alleged financial misconduct tied to the 2025 Hajj operations
- The probe centres on the suspected misappropriation of over N50 billion, including unauthorised spending on tents, housing, and travel perks
- Usman has been granted administrative bail but must report daily to the Commission as inquiries intensify
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a formal investigation into Prof. Saleh Abdullahi Usman, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
The investigation will revolve around allegations of large-scale financial misconduct linked to the 2025 Hajj operations.
Source: Twitter
According to sources familiar with the matter, Prof. Usman voluntarily presented himself at the EFCC headquarters earlier today following a formal invitation from the anti-graft agency.
He was subsequently released on administrative bail but has been directed to report to the Commission daily as investigations continue.
The probe comes amid growing allegations of corruption within NAHCON, including claims of diversion and misappropriation of more than N50 billion earmarked for the 2025 pilgrimage.
Among the specific accusations are the unauthorised expenditure of N25 billion on Masha’ir tents, N7.9 billion on contingency housing, and N1.6 billion in travel expenses reportedly incurred for the spouses of commission officials.
Presidency revokes Usman’s villa clearance
Although Prof. Usman has not yet been formally charged, sources within the Presidency confirmed that his security clearance to the Presidential Villa has been revoked.
The move is widely interpreted as a signal of the gravity with which the federal government is treating the allegations.
NAHCON vows transparency as probe deepens
In a previous appearance before the House of Representatives during a public hearing, Prof. Usman acknowledged the existence of “dirty deals” within the commission and pledged to support efforts aimed at promoting transparency and accountability.
A statement issued by NAHCON reiterated the commission’s commitment to integrity, stating it “will not shield any staff or process found wanting” and affirmed its readiness to cooperate fully with relevant authorities.
When contacted for comment, NAHCON’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, told journalist he would respond shortly, but no confirmation was received before press time.
Source: Twitter
What is NAHCON?
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is the federal agency responsible for overseeing and regulating Hajj and Umrah operations for Nigerian pilgrims.
Established to ensure transparency, efficiency, and safety in pilgrimage management, NAHCON coordinates travel logistics, accommodation, health services, and spiritual guidance in collaboration with state boards and international partners.
The Commission also liaises with Saudi Arabian authorities to meet operational standards and quota requirements. NAHCON plays a vital role in safeguarding pilgrims’ welfare and ensuring compliance with Islamic and governmental protocols.
Tinubu orders reduction of Hajj fares
Legit.ng earlier reported that President Bola Tinubu has directed that the 2026 Hajj fares should be reviewed downward with immediate effect.
This directive came following the continued appreciation of the Nigerian naira against the dollar, which was the major determining factor in the pilgrimage cost. The directive of the president was conveyed through Vice President Kashim Shettima, who held a meeting with the board and management of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) at the presidential villa in Abuja on Monday, October 6.
According to The Guardian, the president asked the commission to produce new and realistic fares within 48 hours. Shettima then called for synergy between the national and state hajj commissions and governors in the review.
Source: Legit.ng
