By Abdu Saidu, Kano
In a significant development within the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, the Chairman and CEO of the Commission, has announced the appointment of Alhaji Alidu Shutti as the Acting Secretary of the Commission, effective immediately.
The appointment comes in the wake of the voluntary retirement of Dr. Abdullahi Rabi’u Kontagora, who stepped down from the role on December 6, 2024.
Prior to his new role, Alhaji Shutti held the position of Director of Inspectorate and Compliance at NAHCON, a role he has served in since 2023. His appointment to Acting Secretary represents the latest step in a distinguished career that spans several years of dedicated service to the Commission.
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Shutti’s extensive experience within NAHCON has been instrumental in the advancement of the Commission’s operations, particularly in the area of Hajj and Umrah administration.
Since joining NAHCON in 2007, Shutti has held various key positions, rising through the ranks of the Civil Service to reach the level of Director. His career trajectory reflects both his commitment to the Commission and his increasing expertise in managing the complex and often challenging tasks involved in the Hajj pilgrimage.
Notably, Shutti has served in several critical capacities, including as the Head of the Tour Operators Division, Assistant Director in the Licensing Division, Deputy Director of States and Zones, and Deputy Coordinator of the Makkah Office in both 2022 and 2023.
Shutti’s academic background further bolsters his qualifications for the role of Acting Secretary. He holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration (MPA), a Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Studies, and a Diploma in Journalism.
These qualifications have provided him with a well-rounded foundation in public administration, Islamic studies, and communication, all of which are vital for his work at NAHCON.
Moreover, Shutti has actively sought to expand his knowledge of Hajj operations through attending several local and international seminars. His participation in these seminars, including those held in the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, has allowed him to stay updated on global best practices in Hajj management.
As Acting Secretary, Shutti will oversee the day-to-day activities of the Commission, ensuring that all tasks related to the Hajj pilgrimage are carried out smoothly and efficiently.
Furthermore, his leadership will be instrumental in facilitating the planning and execution of upcoming Hajj operations, as well as maintaining NAHCON’s commitment to providing a seamless experience for Nigerian pilgrims.
His extensive experience and proven track record are expected to support the Commission during this transitional period until a substantive Secretary is appointed. It is widely believed that Shutti’s appointment will help ensure a smooth transition and continued success in managing Nigeria’s involvement in the Hajj pilgrimage.
Alhaji Alidu Shutti’s appointment as Acting Secretary of NAHCON is a reflection of his years of dedication, professionalism, and in-depth knowledge of Hajj operations. His leadership in this acting capacity is poised to enhance the Commission’s efforts toward organizing and overseeing a successful and well-coordinated Hajj operation, in line with global standards.
