President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in Muttaqha Rabe Darma as minister of housing and urban development following his confirmation by the Senate.
Darma, who is from Katsina state, replaces Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, who recently resigned from the position.
Tinubu congratulated Darma and described his appointment as coming at a critical time for national development.
“You have a very rich and interesting background. As a leader, we need competent hands like yours,” the president said.
“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,” he added.
Tinubu urged the new minister to be ready to serve in any capacity he is called upon apart from his portfolio in the housing ministry.
Darma holds a Doctor of Business Administration degree from the University of Liverpool and a PhD in Industrial Engineering from Atlantic International University, United States.
He obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, and a Master’s Degree in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Benin. He is a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Nigerian Institute of Management.
Darma previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund between 2008 and 2012.
He also held positions as commissioner for works, housing and transport, as well as commissioner for rural and social development in Katsina state.
Before his appointment, Darma was president of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Human Development Centre in Katsina.