President Bola Tinubu has sworn in Muttaqha Darma as the new Minister of Housing and Urban Development, charging him to deploy his experience toward advancing the country’s development agenda.
Gatekeepers News reports that Darma, who hails from Katsina State and was recently confirmed by the Senate, took the oath of office during a brief ceremony at the State House in Abuja on Friday. He replaces Ahmed Dangiwa, who resigned from the cabinet.
Speaking at the ceremony, Tinubu described Darma’s appointment as coming at a “very challenging time of national development” and said the administration needs capable hands to drive its agenda.
“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.”
Tinubu also urged the new minister to be prepared to serve the nation in whatever capacity he may be called upon.
A statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga highlighted Darma’s academic and professional credentials, describing him as a distinguished scholar, administrator and development expert.
According to the statement, Darma holds a Doctor of Business Administration from the University of Liverpool and a PhD in Industrial Engineering from Atlantic International University, United States. He also earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, and a master’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Benin.
The statement noted that Darma is a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Nigerian Institute of Management, and previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) from 2008 to 2012.
He has also held several public offices in Katsina State, including commissioner for works, housing and transport, as well as commissioner for rural and social development.
Before his appointment, Darma was president of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Human Development Centre in Katsina and has also contributed to academia as a lecturer at Bayero University, Kano.
