President Bola Tinubu has officially sworn in Muttaqha Darma as Minister of Housing and Urban Development, marking a new addition to his cabinet.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the State House in Abuja on Friday, following Darma’s confirmation by the Senate.
Darma, who hails from Katsina State, succeeds Ahmed Dangiwa, who recently stepped down from the position.
During the brief ceremony, President Tinubu congratulated the new minister and urged him to bring his experience to bear, particularly given the current challenges facing the country.
“You have a very rich and interesting background. As a leader, we need competent hands like yours.
“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,” the President said in a statement issued by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu further advised Darma to remain prepared to serve in any capacity required in the interest of national development.
The statement highlighted Darma’s academic and professional background, describing him as a seasoned scholar and development expert. He holds a Doctor of Business Administration degree from the University of Liverpool and a PhD in Industrial Engineering from Atlantic International University in the United States.
He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, and a Master’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Benin.
Darma is a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Nigerian Institute of Management. He previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund between 2008 and 2012.
His public service experience includes roles as Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, as well as Commissioner for Rural and Social Development in Katsina State.
In addition to his administrative career, Darma has contributed to academia as a lecturer at Bayero University, Kano, and has published works on governance and development.
Prior to his appointment, he served as President of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Human Development Centre in Katsina.
