President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated Dr Muttaqha Darma as the new Minister of Housing and Urban Development, following his confirmation by the Senate and recent changes in the Federal Executive Council.
The swearing-in ceremony took place on Friday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where Darma officially assumed office as a member of the cabinet. His appointment came shortly after the Senate completed his screening and approval process.
Darma, who previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund, takes over leadership of the ministry after the exit of Ahmed Dangiwa, whose removal came after a minor cabinet reshuffle announced earlier in the week.
Before his confirmation, Darma had presented plans aimed at addressing the country’s housing challenges, including improving access to affordable housing and strengthening institutions linked to the sector. He also spoke of working with the National Assembly to tackle the country’s housing shortage and improve delivery in the ministry.
His appointment is part of moves by the Tinubu administration to adjust key areas of governance and improve performance in strategic sectors. Officials said the reshuffle was designed to support better coordination in government and improve policy delivery.
Dangiwa had already handed over the ministry following directives linked to the cabinet changes, clearing the way for Darma to assume office. With his inauguration completed, attention is now expected to shift to how the new minister will drive housing policies and respond to challenges in the sector.