Senate Approves Darma’s Appointment As Minister

According to Ireporter Online, the Senate has confirmed Muttaqha Rabe Darma as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria following his screening on Thursday.

The confirmation came after a rigorous question-and-answer session during plenary, following a formal request by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which was presented to the upper chamber and subsequently referred to the Committee of the Whole for consideration and approval.

During his screening, Darma pledged to collaborate closely with the National Assembly to tackle Nigeria’s housing challenges, stressing the urgency of expanding access to affordable housing across the country. He noted that over 100 million Nigerians are affected by inadequate housing and called for targeted policies that prioritise low- and middle-income earners, alongside reforms aimed at improving efficiency and service delivery in the sector.

Responding to concerns raised by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, the minister-designate expressed confidence in addressing the housing deficit, stating his determination to bridge existing gaps within available resources. He also emphasised the importance of strengthening governance and accountability in the housing sector, adding that both public institutions and private developers must play active roles in achieving sustainable solutions.

Darma further disclosed plans to reposition the ministry for improved efficiency, drawing on his previous experience as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund. He also linked housing development to national security, noting that stable communities are essential for sustainable growth, while assuring lawmakers of his commitment to restoring Abuja’s master plan and improving urban development in the Federal Capital Territory.

The confirmation comes amid renewed federal efforts to reduce Nigeria’s housing deficit and enhance service delivery in the sector.