National hajj commission gets new secretary

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has named Dr. Mustapha Ali as its new Secretary, following the voluntary resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Kontagora.

This announcement was made in a statement issued by Shafii Sani, the commission’s Principal Information Officer, on Friday in Abuja.

According to Sani, Ali was appointed after successfully meeting the criteria outlined in NAHCON’s publicized job requirements.

“Dr Mustapha Ali emerged successful after meeting the requirements advertised by the commission on its website and other media channels. His subsequent appointment was endorsed by the 5th Board of the NAHCON after its meeting on Feb. 26 in accordance with Section 8 of the NAHCON Establishment Act (2006),” Sani said.

Ali’s appointment also ensures representation for Nigeria’s North East region within the commission’s leadership, Sani added.

The newly appointed Secretary previously served as the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Pilgrims Board, bringing valuable experience to his new role.

“Ali, born in Yerwa in Maiduguri, Borno State, will serve as secretary of the commission for a period of four years renewable after the first tenure,” Sani stated.

Ali’s educational background includes a Doctorate and Master’s degree in Islamic Studies, a Postgraduate Diploma in Education and Administration, a Diploma in Computer Application and Internet, and an Executive Life Manager Certificate. He attended the University of Maiduguri, Bayero University Kano, and the University College for Islamic Call in Tripoli, Libya.

Sani highlighted Ali’s additional training at the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Badagry, alongside other institutions such as Yaysib Computer Institute and Elkanemi College of Islamic Theology in Maiduguri.

“His responsibilities as new Secretary of the commission include keeping records, conducting correspondences, and serving as secretary at all meetings of the commission. He will also ensure effective reporting of the commission’s activities to the relevant authorities.

“The new secretary will see to the maintenance of the register of licensed Hajj operators, facilitation of publication of the commission’s regulations and coordination of the commission’s standard of performance.

“It is expected that Ali’s appointment will bring additional value to the commission,” Sani said.