The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has finally taken decisive action by posting out all seconded workers to their original ministries and departments. This move comes after months of internal pressure, petitions, and a directive from Vice President Kashim Shettima, who earlier instructed the commission to end the controversial placements.

According to a statement released by NAHCON spokesperson Fatima Usara, the decision was approved at the board's 14th sitting held between August 26 and 27, 2025. Letters of reposting were officially issued on September 4, 2025. The board explained that the action was meant to eliminate redundancy, strengthen efficiency, and restore confidence in the commission's service delivery.

For years, workers accused the management, led by Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman (popularly known as Pakistan), of favoritism and financial mismanagement. They argued that seconded officers were unjustly prioritized over original NAHCON staff. During the 2025 Hajj exercise, 25 of the 26 seconded officers reportedly enjoyed full sponsorship while 78 regular staff were excluded.

Investigations further revealed that at least nine seconded officials owe millions of naira for spouse sponsorships. Those named include Abdulmalik Diggi, the chairman's nephew, and Sirajo Usman Salisu, his biological brother. In total, staff allege the external officers drained over ₦3 billion from the commission without adding meaningful value.

Workers have also called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to recover unpaid funds, including over ₦18 million linked to NAHCON spokesperson Usara's spouses during Hajj. They vowed to resist any attempt to reinstate retired or related officers.

By enforcing this reform, NAHCON aims to rebuild integrity, ensure fairness, and focus on transparent management of Hajj resources. The outcome will determine whether staff confidence in the commission can truly be restored after years of mistrust.

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