STATE HOUSE, ABUJA – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in Dr Muttaqha Rabe Darma as Nigeria’s new Minister of Housing and Urban Development, following his successful screening by the Senate.
The brief but symbolic ceremony took place on Friday at the State House, where Dr Darma officially took the oath of office. He replaces Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, who recently resigned from the position.
Speaking at the event, President Tinubu congratulated the new minister for joining the administration at a “very challenging time of national development.”
“You have a very rich and interesting background. As a leader, we need competent hands like yours,” the President 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.”
President Tinubu urged Dr Darma to be prepared to serve in any capacity in which he is called upon, stressing the need for dedication and competence in driving the government’s housing and urban renewal agenda.
Dr Darma brings an extensive academic and professional pedigree to the role. He holds a Doctor of Business Administration degree from the University of Liverpool and a PhD in Industrial Engineering from Atlantic International University, USA. He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, and 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, Dr Darma previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) from 2008 to 2012. He later held key positions in Katsina State, including Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, and Commissioner for Rural and Social Development.
In addition to his administrative roles, he has lectured at Bayero University, Kano, and is widely published in governance and development. Most recently, he served as President of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Human Development Centre in Katsina.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, confirmed the appointment in a statement issued on April 24, 2026.
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