Ministerial nominee Muttagha Darma has pledged to work closely with the National Assembly to tackle Nigeria’s housing deficit, promising reforms aimed at expanding access to affordable housing and improving sector performance.
Darma made the commitment during his screening before the Senate on Thursday in Abuja, where he outlined plans to address what he described as a long-standing leadership gap in housing delivery.
“We will work together with the National Assembly to ensure that the challenge of housing is addressed,” he told lawmakers.
He noted that more than 100 million Nigerians are affected by inadequate housing, stressing the need for affordable homes for low- and middle-income earners.
The nominee said reforms would focus on strengthening governance, improving accountability, and encouraging greater private sector participation in real estate development.
Responding to concerns raised by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Darma acknowledged the scale of Nigeria’s housing deficit but expressed confidence that it could be resolved with sustained political will.
“I believe everything is possible. I will do everything within my capacity to close the gaps and improve the situation,” he said.
Drawing on his previous experience as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), he promised to reposition the housing ministry for improved efficiency and results.
He also said that improving security would be essential to sustainable housing development, adding that stable communities are necessary for successful urban planning.
On Abuja’s master plan, Darma assured lawmakers that urban development challenges in the Federal Capital Territory would be properly addressed.
Meanwhile, outgoing Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has formally handed over to the Minister of State, Yusuf Abdullahi, following a cabinet reshuffle ordered by President Bola Tinubu.
The handover ceremony, held in Abuja, complied with directives from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to complete transitions before April 23, 2026.
