NAHCON debunks allegations on 2025 Hajj staff selection.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has debunked allegations on a recent publication alleging irregularities in the selection of ad-hoc staff for the 2025 Hajj.

In a statement from the office of the National Chairman of the Commission Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, said the allegations and claims of nepotism, racketeering, and breach of procedure were mere fabrication from self ambitious sections.

In response to the allegations, the National Chairman of the Commission, explained that, to ensure public confidence and transparency in its operations, selection process for the 2025 National Medical Team (NMT) was being carried out by a Steering Committee made up of medical professionals from outside NAHCON, chaired by the Commission’s Commissioner of Planning, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services Professor Abubakar Yagawal.

According to the statement, from the applications received via the dedicated medical portal, 8,452 were found to be duly completed and each application underwent a rigorous screening process based on strict criteria.

Regarding the deployment of NAHCON staff for offshore operations, the National Chairman of NAHCON noted that the selection was informed by multiple factors including attendance records, relevance of duties, previous performance, and disciplinary standing—rather than tenure or rank alone.

He highlighted that a committee chaired by the Director of Administration, and inclusive of staff union representatives and unit heads, was tasked with making impartial decisions under oath of confidentiality and fairness.

Professor Abdullahi Sale noted that exclusions from this year’s list were not arbitrary as they may have stemmed from disciplinary measures, medical or personal circumstances, including pregnancy, absenteeism, budget limitations, or negative assessments by supervisors.

He pointed out that, every staff selection, from junior to management level, was subjected to a thorough vetting process, and in cases requiring urgency or specialized skill, availability and competency were given priority in the overall interest of the Hajj operation.

Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman reaffirms NAHCON’s commitment to fairness, staff welfare, and operational excellence, adding that the Commission is reinforcing internal checks to ensure equity in all its procedures and remains focused on delivering a seamless Hajj experience to Nigerian pilgrims.

He urged stakeholders, the media, and the public to verify information through official channels rather than giving credence to baseless, anonymous claims intended to distract from the Commission’s mandate.

He hinted that, the 2025 Hajj preparations are progressing steadily, and NAHCON remains resolute in fulfilling its responsibility with integrity, professionalism, and accountability pointing out that politicizing the Hajj activities is unfair to the country and the holy exetcise.

He assured that the commission’s doors remain open for contructive engagement on how to achirve seamless exercise