The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Muttaqha Rabe Darma as a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria following his screening during plenary.
Darma, who was nominated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was approved after responding to lawmakers’ questions on his qualifications, policy direction and plans to address the country’s housing challenges.
During the session, the minister-designate pledged close collaboration with the National Assembly to tackle Nigeria’s housing deficit, outlining proposals aimed at improving governance, expanding access to affordable homes and strengthening institutional frameworks within the sector.
He identified leadership gaps as a major constraint to effective housing delivery and stressed that coordinated efforts between the executive and legislature would be essential to achieving meaningful progress.
Darma noted that millions of Nigerians are affected by inadequate housing and emphasised the need to prioritise low- and middle-income earners in policy design.
Responding to concerns raised by Adams Oshiomhole, he acknowledged the scale of the challenge but expressed confidence that targeted reforms could deliver results.
Drawing on his experience as former Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund, Darma assured lawmakers of his readiness to reposition the ministry for improved performance.
He also highlighted the link between security and housing development, noting that stable communities are critical to sustainable urban growth.
On urban planning, he assured senators that attention would be given to restoring the master plan of the Abuja.
The confirmation followed the formal request transmitted by the President and read on the Senate floor by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, after which the nomination was considered by the Committee of the Whole.
A trained engineer and graduate of Bayero University Kano, Darma is expected to bring technical expertise to the housing ministry at a time of growing demand for urban infrastructure.
His confirmation comes despite earlier political controversy linked to his role as deputy governorship candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party in the 2023 elections, where he was later expelled.
Observers say his appointment reflects the administration’s push to strengthen key sectors with technocratic input, particularly in housing, where supply continues to lag behind demand.
