The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has appointed Mustapha Ali as the new secretary of the commission.

This is according to a statement by Shafii Sani, principal information officer of the commission, on Friday in Abuja.

Mr Sani said that Mr Ali’s appointment followed the voluntary resignation of the former secretary, Abdullahi Rabi’u Kontagora, after which Alidu Shutti took over in an acting capacity.

“Dr Mustapha Ali emerged successful after meeting the requirements advertised by the commission on its website and other media channels.

“His subsequent appointment was endorsed by the 5th Board of the NAHCON after its meeting on February 26 in accordance with Section 8 of the NAHCON Establishment Act (2006),” he said.

He said that Mr Ali’s appointment had ensured that North-East was now represented on the NAHCON board.

Mr Sani said that the new secretary’s experience as former executive secretary of the Borno State Pilgrims Board was an added advantage.

“Ali, born in Yerwa in Maiduguri, Borno State, will serve as secretary of the commission for a period of four years, renewable after the first tenure.

“He holds a doctorate and master’s degree both in Islamic Studies, a postgraduate diploma in education and administration, a diploma in computer application and internet, and an Executive Life Manager Certificate.

“He attended the University of Maiduguri, Bayero University, Kano, and the University College for Islamic Call, Tripoli, Libya, where he excelled in his field of studies,” Mr Sani said.

He said that the new NAHCON secretary also attended the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Badagry, Yaysib Computer Institute, and Elkanemi College of Islamic Theology Maiduguri.

“His responsibilities as new secretary of the commission include keeping records, conducting correspondences, and serving as secretary at all meetings of the commission.

“He will also ensure effective reporting of the commission’s activities to the relevant authorities.

“The new secretary will see to the maintenance of the register of licensed Hajj operators, facilitation of publication of the commission’s regulations, and coordination of the commission’s standard of performance.

“It is expected that Ali’s appointment will bring additional value to the commission,” he said.

(NAN)