The Senate has confirmed Muttaqha Rabe Darma as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria following his screening on Thursday.
The confirmation followed a question-and-answer session during plenary, after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier forwarded his nomination to the upper chamber.
The request was read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and referred to the Committee of the Whole, which later recommended his confirmation.
During his screening, Darma assured lawmakers of his commitment to working closely with the National Assembly to address Nigeria’s housing challenges.
He said, “We will work together with the National Assembly to ensure that the challenge of housing is addressed.”
The minister noted that over 100 million Nigerians are affected by inadequate housing, stressing the need to expand access to affordable homes.
He emphasised policies targeted at low- and middle-income earners, alongside reforms to improve service delivery in the sector.
Responding to concerns raised by Adams Oshiomhole, Darma expressed optimism about tackling the housing deficit.
“I believe everything is possible. I will do everything within my capacity to close the gaps and improve the situation,” he said.
Darma highlighted the need to strengthen governance and accountability within the housing sector, noting that both public institutions and private developers must play key roles.
He also pledged to reposition the ministry for efficiency, drawing from his experience as former Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund.
The minister-designate said he would contribute to efforts to improve national security, noting that stable communities are essential for sustainable housing development.
He also assured lawmakers that restoring Abuja’s master plan and improving urban development in the Federal Capital Territory would be priorities.
The confirmation comes amid ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to address Nigeria’s housing deficit and strengthen service delivery in the sector.
