Tinubu swears in Dr Muttaqha Darma as Housing Minister, replaces Ahmed Musa Dangiwa

Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday swore in Dr Muttaqha Rabe Darma as Nigeria’s new Minister of Housing and Urban Development, following his clearance by the Senate. Darma, from Katsina State, replaces Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, who recently resigned from the cabinet.

At the brief ceremony held at the State House, President Tinubu congratulated Darma, describing him as a “fitting peg in the right position” and commending his rich professional background. “You have rendered valuable services in all the assignments you have embarked upon. We need competent hands like yours at this challenging time of national development,” Tinubu said. He further urged the new minister to be ready to serve in any capacity as required.

According to a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), Darma brings extensive experience as a scholar, administrator, and development expert. He holds a Doctor of Business Administration degree from the University of Liverpool and a PhD in Industrial Engineering from Atlantic International University, USA. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, followed by a Master’s in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Benin.

A member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Nigerian Institute of Management, 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, and Commissioner for Rural and Social Development. In addition, he has contributed to academia as a lecturer at Bayero University, Kano, and is widely published in governance and development.

Before his appointment, Darma was President of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Human Development Centre in Katsina. His swearing-in marks a new phase for Nigeria’s housing and urban development sector, with expectations that his expertise will help drive reforms and strengthen national infrastructure.