Tinubu Swears In Dr. Muttaqha Darma As Minister Of Housing

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in Dr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma as the new Minister of Housing and Urban Development, following his confirmation by the Senate.

The swearing-in ceremony, held on Friday at the State House in Abuja, comes after the resignation of his predecessor, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa.

In his remarks, President Tinubu congratulated Dr. Darma on his appointment, describing it as a critical period in Nigeria’s development. He expressed confidence in the new minister’s capacity to deliver, citing his extensive professional and academic background.

“You have a very rich and interesting background. As a leader, we need competent hands like yours. There is no doubt that you have rendered valuable services in all the assignments you have undertaken; you are a fitting peg in the right position,” the President said.

He further urged Dr. Darma to remain prepared to serve the nation in any capacity when called upon.

Dr. Darma, a seasoned scholar and development expert, holds a Doctor of Business Administration from the University of Liverpool and a PhD in Industrial Engineering from Atlantic International University. He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University Kano and a Master’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Benin.

A member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Nigerian Institute of Management, Dr. Darma previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund between 2008 and 2012. He also held key roles in Katsina State, including Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, as well as Commissioner for Rural and Social Development.

In addition to his public service career, he has contributed to academia as a lecturer at Bayero University, Kano, and has published widely on governance and development.

Prior to his ministerial appointment, Dr. Darma was President of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Human Development Centre in Katsina.

The appointment is expected to strengthen the leadership of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development as the federal government intensifies efforts to address housing challenges and urban development across the country.