Tinubu swears in Darma as Housing Minister

President Bola Tinubu on Friday administered the oath of office to Muttaqha Rabe Darma as the new Minister of Housing and Urban Development, following his confirmation by the Senate.

Dr Darma replaces Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, who recently resigned from the position.

The brief swearing-in ceremony took place at the State House in Abuja, where President Tinubu congratulated the new minister and charged him to bring his wealth of experience to bear at what he described as 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, expressing confidence in Darma’s capacity to deliver.

He urged the new minister to remain committed and prepared to serve in any capacity required in advancing government priorities.

Dr Darma, a seasoned scholar, administrator, and development expert, holds a Doctor of Business Administration degree from the University of Liverpool and a PhD in Industrial Engineering from Atlantic International University, United States.

He obtained 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, Darma previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund from 2008 to 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 is widely published in governance and development studies.

Before his appointment, he served as President of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Human Development Centre in Katsina State.