Chairman/CEO, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman
By Olugbenga Salami
National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, has urged Nigerians to sustain their prayers for the country’s peace, stability, and prosperity.
This was even as the commission reaffirmed its commitment to promoting national cohesion and supporting the government’s efforts to build a better Nigeria for all
In a congratulatory statement on the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, NAHCON chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, also called on citizens to embrace patriotism, brotherhood, and sacrifice in their daily lives.
Usman described the anniversary as a historic reminder of the sacrifices and resilience of Nigeria’s founding fathers who fought for freedom, dignity, and unity.
According to him, 65 years after independence, the country continues to demonstrate strength, faith, and the collective will to overcome challenges, while nurturing the hope of a greater and more prosperous nation.
“As an institution saddled with the sacred mandate of coordinating the spiritual journey of Nigerian Muslims to the Holy Land, NAHCON remains committed to upholding transparency, accountability, and service excellence in the discharge of its responsibilities.
“We will continue to align our efforts with national values of unity, peace, and progress.
“On this special occasion, I congratulate every Nigerian and wish our dear country continued progress. Together, we can build the Nigeria of our dreams,” he stated.
In a broadcast to commemorate the occasion, President Bola Tinubu said: “For decades, the promise of our Independence has been tested by profound social, economic, and political challenges, and we have survived. While we may not have achieved all the lofty dreams of our forebearers, we have not strayed too far from them.
“In 65 years since our Independence, we have made tremendous progress in economic growth, social cohesion, and physical development. Our economy has experienced significant growth since 1960.”
Tinubu declared that his administration is setting things right, saying the worst period was gone.
“I am pleased to report that we have finally turned the corner. The worst is over, I say. Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. I salute your endurance, support, and understanding. I will continue to work for you and justify the confidence you reposed in me to steer the ship of our nation to a safe harbour,“ he promised.
The President added that the economy under his leadership “is recovering fast, and the reforms we started over two years ago are delivering tangible results.”
“The second quarter 2025 Gross Domestic Product grew by 4.23%—Nigeria’s fastest pace in four years—and outpaced the 3.4 per cent projected by the International Monetary Fund. Inflation declined to 20.12%,” Tinubu stressed.
