Senate Confirms Darma as Housing Minister to Tackle Deficit

On Thursday, the Nigerian Senate confirmed Muttaqha Rabe Darma as the Minister of Housing, following an extensive screening session. The confirmation was part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's request under Section 147(2) of the 1999 Constitution.

Senators across party lines commended Darma's academic and professional background, noting the significant housing deficit affecting approximately ten million citizens. Senator Moham Tahir Monguno highlighted the importance of shelter as a basic human necessity and urged Darma to bridge the housing gap while addressing rural-urban migration.

Concerns were raised about underutilized pension funds as potential sources for housing finance. Darma acknowledged the challenges in Nigeria's housing sector and pledged to pursue policies that improve access to affordable housing.

He emphasized the need for inter-agency cooperation and the alignment of policies with stakeholders to ensure resource availability. Senators also called for the harmonization of various housing schemes and the completion of abandoned housing projects across the country.