Sheikh Sharubutu commends President Mahama for reappointing Hajj Board Chair

The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has congratulated Abdul Rauf Ibrahim Tanko on his reappointment as the Chairman of the Ghana Hajj Board.

In a statement issued in Accra and signed by his Personal Assistant, Dr Mohammed Marzuq Abubakari Azindoo, the Chief Imam also commended President John Dramani Mahama for what he described as a “wise decision” in reappointing the former Member of Parliament for Yagaba Kubori to lead the Hajj operations.

According to the Chief Imam, the appointment reflects recognition of Tanko’s “service, resilience, perseverance, and excellence” during his previous tenure between 2013 and 2016.

“His performance as Chairman of the Hajj Board during that period stands tall in the history of Hajj operations in Ghana despite the relatively minimal challenges faced,” the statement said.

The revered cleric described Mr Tanko’s earlier stewardship as “a candle of light in the darkness of Hajj management in Ghana,” expressing optimism that his return would help restore order, transparency, and efficiency in the organisation of the annual pilgrimage.

Sheikh Sharubutu expressed hope that Tanko’s reappointment would serve as the foundation for establishing a permanent Hajj Board “of Muslims, by Muslims, for Muslims,” working closely with state institutions to enhance the comfort of pilgrims and improve coordination.

He urged the new Chairman to be guided by the teachings of the Holy Quran, specifically Chapter 3, Verse 159, which recommends mercy, gentility, forgiveness, tolerance, consultation, and faith as the core principles of leadership.

The National Chief Imam concluded with prayers for the success of the 2026 Hajj and for all stakeholders involved in its organisation, including the government, the Hajj Agents Association, and the Ghanaian Muslim community.