The Nigerian Senate has officially confirmed the appointment of Jalal Arabi as the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). This confirmation follows President Bola Tinubu’s request for the approval of Arabi’s appointment, as well as three Commissioners – Aliu Abdulrazak, Anofiu Elegushi, and Prof. Abubakar Yagawal.
President Tinubu had initially appointed Arabi on October 23, directing the outgoing Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan, to proceed on a 3-month pre-retirement leave as per Public Service Rule (PSR) 120243. This led to Hassan’s eventual retirement from service on January 17, 2023.
Arabi, during a meeting with the staff after his resumption on October 18, 2023, called for cooperation and stronger ties among the commission’s members. He emphasized the genuine nature of the Renewed Hope agenda of President Tinubu and sought the staff’s cooperation to contribute to the national agenda. Arabi also expressed his commitment to ensuring that pilgrims feel heard and valued, fostering a sense of belonging.