Natasha endorses Tinubu’s nominee Yusuf for NAHCON chair

The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has publicly endorsed Ambassador Ismail Yusuf for the role of Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

The endorsement comes after President Bola Tinubu forwarded Yusuf’s nomination to the Senate for confirmation. This step aligns with Section 3(2) of the NAHCON Act, 2006, which mandates legislative approval for the appointment of the commission’s chairman

Speaking during the Senate committee screening, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the nominee as “the perfect person” for the job, citing his diplomatic pedigree and international exposure.

She said, “I am very proud to note at this moment that the nominee is an indigene of my State. Having carefully gone through his résumé, I join my colleagues in recommending his nomination as Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.

“With his vast international experience, serving in various delegations to countries such as Turkey, China, Argentina, Russia, Italy, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, France, and many others, I believe he is exceptionally qualified for this position.

“With such extensive exposure in international relations, I congratulate you, my dear Igala brother.”

Yusuf, a native of Idah Local Government Area of Kogi State, is a career diplomat with decades of service in Nigeria’s foreign missions.

He most recently served as Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Türkiye from 2021 to 2024, where he was credited with strengthening bilateral ties and expanding economic and diplomatic cooperation.

His nomination followed the resignation of Professor Abdullahi Usman after about 14 months in office, creating a leadership vacuum at NAHCON as preparations for future Hajj operations continue.

The commission is the statutory body responsible for regulating and supervising Hajj and Umrah activities in Nigeria, including coordinating state pilgrims’ boards, airlift arrangements, accommodation logistics and liaison with Saudi authorities.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s endorsement is seen as reinforcing support within the Senate for the nominee ahead of plenary consideration of the committee’s report.

The Senate is expected to conclude deliberations and take a final decision on the nomination after adopting the screening committee’s recommendations.