President Bola Tinubu has officially sworn in Dr. Muttaqha Darma as the new Minister of Housing and Urban Development.
The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja shortly before 4:00 p.m., marking his formal assumption of office following his confirmation by the Senate. His nomination had earlier been transmitted to the National Assembly and subsequently approved after a screening exercise.
Dr. Darma, who previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund, steps into the role with a mandate to address Nigeria’s longstanding housing challenges. During his screening, he highlighted the urgent need to tackle the country’s housing deficit, noting that tens of millions of Nigerians lack access to adequate shelter.
He outlined plans to work closely with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to expand access to affordable housing, strengthen institutional frameworks, and improve overall leadership within the housing sector. He also emphasized the importance of sustainable urban development and policies that will support growing populations in cities across the country.
Dr. Darma takes over from Ahmed Dangiwa, whose exit followed a recent cabinet reshuffle. The changes, coordinated through the office of George Akume, are part of broader efforts to enhance coordination in governance and improve service delivery.
Officials noted that the reshuffle aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic growth, infrastructure development, and improved living conditions for citizens. The transition in the ministry was completed smoothly, with a formal handover conducted in line with directives from the federal government.
With his appointment, expectations are high that the new minister will drive reforms, boost housing supply, and implement policies that will make home ownership more accessible to Nigerians while strengthening urban planning and development nationwide.
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