Ministerial nominee, Muttagha Darma, on Thursday, pledged to work closely with the National Assembly to address Nigeria’s widening housing deficit, unveiling plans aimed at improving leadership in the sector, expanding access to affordable housing, and strengthening institutional performance across housing agencies.
Speaking during his screening before the Senate in Abuja, Darma said his reform agenda would prioritise bridging what he described as a persistent leadership gap that has hampered effective housing delivery nationwide.
According to him, collaboration with lawmakers remains essential to resolving long-standing structural challenges in the housing sector.
“We will work together with the National Assembly to ensure that the challenge of housing is addressed,” Darma told lawmakers.
He noted that more than 100 million Nigerians are currently affected by inadequate housing, stressing the urgency of making homes more accessible and affordable, particularly for low- and middle-income earners.
The nominee further emphasised the importance of governance reforms and accountability, stating that his proposed interventions would cut across public institutions and private sector participation in real estate development.
Responding to concerns raised by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Darma acknowledged the magnitude of Nigeria’s housing deficit but maintained that it could be resolved with the right policy framework and political will.
“I believe everything is possible. I will do everything within my capacity to close the gaps and improve the situation,” he said.
He drew attention to his previous role as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), noting that the experience would support his efforts to reposition the housing ministry into a more efficient and results-driven institution.
Darma also assured the lawmakers that his tenure, if confirmed, would focus on measurable outcomes and improved service delivery within the housing sector.
On security concerns, he said he would contribute to ongoing national efforts to improve safety, stressing that stable communities are essential for sustainable housing development.
On the issue of Abuja’s urban planning, the nominee assured the Senate that the restoration and enforcement of the FCT master plan would be given priority attention.
Meanwhile, Ahmed Dangiwa has formally handed over the affairs of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi on Thursday.
The handover followed a minor cabinet reshuffle by President Bola Tinubu and Dangiwa’s resignation earlier in the week.
The ceremony took place at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja and was carried out in compliance with directives from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, which mandated that the transition be concluded before close of business.
