Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially sworn in Dr Muttaqha Rabe Darma as the new Minister of Housing and Urban Development, charging him to bring competence, experience, and dedication to one of the country’s critical sectors.
The oath of office was administered on Friday during a brief ceremony at the State House following Darma’s confirmation by the Nigerian Senate.
Darma takes over from Architect Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, who recently resigned from the position.
During the ceremony, President Tinubu congratulated the new minister on his appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to contribute meaningfully to the administration’s development agenda.
The President described the period as a challenging but important phase in Nigeria’s national development, noting that the housing and urban development sector remains central to economic growth, job creation, and improved living standards.
“You have a very rich and interesting background. As a leader, we need competent hands like yours,” Tinubu said.
“There is no doubt that you have rendered valuable services in all the assignments you have embarked upon. You are a fitting peg in the right position.”
The President further urged Darma to remain prepared for service in any role where his expertise may be needed, stressing the importance of commitment and flexibility in public administration.
The appointment is expected to bring renewed focus to the housing sector, which remains one of the key pillars of the Federal Government’s infrastructure and social development agenda.
Nigeria continues to face a significant housing deficit, rapid urbanisation pressures, rising construction costs, and the need for modern city planning, making the ministry one of the most strategic portfolios in the cabinet.
Strong Academic and Professional Background
Dr Darma comes into office with an extensive academic record and broad experience spanning engineering, management, development policy, and public service.
He holds a Doctor of Business Administration degree from the University of Liverpool and also earned a PhD in Industrial Engineering from Atlantic International University.
His earlier academic qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University Kano.
He later obtained a Master’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Benin.
The combination of engineering and business management qualifications is expected to support his oversight of technical housing projects, infrastructure coordination, urban renewal programmes, and policy reforms.
Public Service Experience
Beyond academia, Darma has held several significant public offices at both state and federal levels.
He previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund between 2008 and 2012, where he oversaw programmes focused on manpower development, scholarships, and technical capacity building in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
He also served in Katsina State as Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, a role directly connected to the ministry he now heads at the federal level.
In addition, he held office as Commissioner for Rural and Social Development in the state, where he was involved in policies aimed at improving community infrastructure and social welfare.
These positions are seen as giving him practical experience in road construction, public works, housing delivery systems, transportation planning, and grassroots development.
Academic Contributions
Darma has also contributed to higher education and human capital development through his work as a lecturer at Bayero University, Kano.
His academic background is expected to be an advantage in policy formulation, evidence-based planning, and collaboration with research institutions on sustainable housing and urbanisation strategies.
Experts say technocrats with cross-sector experience are increasingly valuable in government ministries dealing with infrastructure and demographic challenges.
Expectations in Office
As Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Darma is expected to oversee federal housing programmes, urban renewal initiatives, mortgage expansion efforts, and partnerships aimed at increasing affordable housing supply.
He will also likely play a major role in policies concerning slum upgrading, city planning, land administration reforms, and support for private-sector housing investments.
Nigeria’s expanding population and rising demand for residential accommodation have placed greater pressure on the government to develop innovative solutions to the housing shortage.
Stakeholders in the real estate and construction sectors are expected to watch closely for continuity or policy shifts following the leadership transition.
Tinubu’s Cabinet Adjustments
The swearing-in of Darma reflects the President’s ongoing efforts to strengthen his cabinet with individuals considered capable of delivering on sector-specific mandates.
Since assuming office, Tinubu has repeatedly emphasised performance, competence, and accountability among ministers and senior appointees.
The appointment of a replacement minister shortly after Dangiwa’s resignation also signals the administration’s intention to avoid policy delays in a ministry considered vital to national development.
Looking Ahead
For many observers, Darma’s success will be measured by how effectively he can translate policy into visible housing projects, urban infrastructure upgrades, and easier access to home ownership for Nigerians.
With experience in engineering, administration, academia, and public service, expectations are high that he will bring practical leadership to the ministry.
As he formally assumes office, attention now turns to the programmes and reforms he will introduce to address one of Nigeria’s most pressing development challenges safe, affordable, and sustainable housing for a growing population.
