Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), has expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s nominee for the position of Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Yusuf, citing his diplomatic experience and Kogi roots.
Yusuf, who hails from Idah, in Kogi East Senatorial District, is a career diplomat. He served in various delegations to countries such as: Türkiye, China, Argentina, Russia, Italy, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, France, among others.
The Senator endorsed his nomination during his screening by the Senator Abubakar Bello (APC, Niger) -led Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, in Abuja, Wednesday.
Akpoti-Uduaghan described the nominee as “the perfect person” for the role.
She said, “I am very proud to note at this moment that the nominee is an indigene of my State. Having carefully gone through his résumé, I join my colleagues in recommending his nomination as Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.
“With his vast international experience, serving in various delegations to countries such as: Türkiye China, Argentina, Russia, Italy, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, France, and many others, I believe he is exceptionally qualified for this position.”
She added, “With such extensive exposure in international relations, I congratulate you, my dear Igala brother.”
Ambassador Yusuf was Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Türkiye from 2021 to 2024, where he played a significant role in strengthening bilateral relations between both nations.
President Tinubu forwarded his nomination to the Senate for screening and confirmation, in accordance with Section 3(2) of the NAHCON Act, 2006, which requires Senate confirmation for the appointment.
In a letter addressed to Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, President Tinubu sought the expeditious confirmation of the nominee as replacement for Professor Abdullahi Usman, who resigned after approximately 14 months in office.
The Senate is expected to conclude deliberations and announce its decision following the submission of the committee’s report.
