By MUHYIDEEN JIMOH

President Bola Tinubu on Friday administered the oath of office to Dr Muttaqha Darma as the new Minister of Housing and Urban Development.

Darma, from Katsina State, was sworn in at a brief ceremony at the State House, Abuja, following his confirmation by the Senate.

He replaced Mr Ahmed Dangiwa, who recently resigned.

This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Friday in Abuja.

Tinubu congratulated Darma on his appointment and described the period as a challenging time for national development.

“You have a very rich and interesting background. As a leader, we need competent hands like yours.

“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.”

Tinubu urged the new minister to remain ready to serve in any capacity required for national progress.

Darma is a scholar, administrator and development expert.

He holds a Doctor of Business Administration degree from University of Liverpool and a PhD in Industrial Engineering from Atlantic International University.

He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University Kano and a Master’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering from University of Benin.

He is a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Nigerian Institute of Management.

Darma served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund from 2008 to 2012.

He also held positions as Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, and Commissioner for Rural and Social Development in Katsina State.

Before his appointment, he was President of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Human Development Centre. (NAN)

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