Nigeria’s Housing Minister-Designate, Muttaqha Rabe Darma

Muttaqha Rabe Darma has been nominated as Minister of Housing and Urban Development, following a cabinet reshuffle approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The appointment, confirmed in a memo signed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, will see Darma replace Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, pending Senate confirmation. The transition process is expected to be completed within days, with the outgoing minister directed to hand over to the Minister of State in the interim.

Darma brings a blend of public and private sector experience to the role, with a career spanning governance, energy, and investment management. He previously served as Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund, where he oversaw capacity-building initiatives in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

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His public service record also includes a stint as a commissioner in Katsina State, where he was involved in policy implementation and development planning. In the private sector, he has held executive roles, including at Coshcharis Group, before moving on to lead Pleasant Investment, a firm with interests in oil, gas, and energy.

Academically, Darma holds a Doctor of Business Administration from the University of Liverpool and a PhD in Industrial Engineering, alongside degrees in mechanical engineering and business administration. His academic and professional background positions him to navigate the complex challenges within Nigeria’s housing sector.

His nomination comes at a time when Nigeria faces a significant housing deficit, with millions of citizens lacking access to affordable housing. Industry stakeholders expect his leadership to focus on policy reforms, private sector participation, and innovative financing models to address the gap.

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development plays a central role in shaping urban planning, housing delivery, and infrastructure development. Observers note that Darma’s experience in both governance and investment could prove critical in driving reforms and unlocking capital for large-scale housing projects.

However, his appointment remains subject to Senate screening and confirmation, which will determine the final outcome of the nomination.