Former Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Usman Saleh, has explained the reasons behind his decision to resign from office.

Professor Saleh tendered his resignation on Tuesday in Abuja amid controversy surrounding his administrative style and financial management.

Before his sudden exit, the Professor of Arabic had faced sustained criticism, allegations of corruption and, most recently, a vote of no confidence by stakeholders over his leadership of the commission.

Explaining his decision, Saleh said he stepped down based on personal conviction following extensive consultations with his family and other stakeholders.

In a letter personally signed by him, the former NAHCON chairman said the decision was taken “in good conscience” and with deep respect for public service.

“I wish to state unequivocally that this decision was taken entirely for personal reasons. After prayerful contemplation and consultations with my family, I made this choice in good conscience and with profound respect for the sacred responsibilities of public service,” he wrote.

Saleh added that his resignation was submitted in line with statutory provisions.

“In accordance with Section 3(6) of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2006, I have formally submitted my resignation in writing to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” the letter stated.

The former NAHCON boss expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve.

“To His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, I remain eternally grateful for the trust and honour of appointing me to serve our nation and the Muslim ummah in this capacity. The confidence you placed in me is a privilege I will forever cherish,” he said.

He also acknowledged the support of Vice President Kashim Shettima.

“I am equally grateful to His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima, whose guidance, encouragement and unwavering support were invaluable throughout my tenure,” Saleh noted.

He further thanked members of the NAHCON board, management and staff for their cooperation and dedication.

“To the members of the Board, I extend my sincere appreciation. To the management and staff of the Commission, I thank you for your collegiality, dedication and shared sense of purpose,” he added.

Professor Saleh leaves office after spending about 18 months as NAHCON chairman, during which he supervised one Hajj operation.

He was appointed in August 2024 following the removal of his predecessor, Barrister Jalal Arabi, who was accused of misappropriating ₦90 billion from the federal government’s Hajj subsidy.