Senate Confirms Dr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma as Minister Following Presidential Nomination

Dr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma has been confirmed by the Senate as a Minister of the Federal Republic, following a screening focused on Nigeria's housing crisis.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 23, 2026, 10:00 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Daily Trust

Legislative Approval of Presidential Nominee

The Senate has confirmed the appointment of Dr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria during its plenary session on Thursday, April 23, 2026. The confirmation follows a formal request sent by President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday. Senate President Godswill Akpabio presided over the session, which focused on evaluating Darma's fitness for a cabinet position and his vision for national development within the administration’s current framework.

Focus on the National Housing Strategy

During the extensive questioning phase, Dr. Darma was asked to detail his strategies for addressing Nigeria's persistent housing deficit. While his specific portfolio has not yet been officially assigned, the Senate focused on his potential impact should he be placed in the Ministry of Housing. Darma provided several proposals aimed at expanding affordable housing access and optimizing urban development. His responses were met with satisfaction from the lawmakers, leading to a smooth transition toward his final confirmation.

Appointments for Unclaimed Funds Management

In addition to the ministerial confirmation, the Senate approved the nomination of Obehi Aire Okafor as the Co-chairman of the Governing Council of the Unclaimed Funds Trust Fund. This decision was reached following a detailed screening report presented by Senator Musa Mohammed Sani, Chairman of the Committee on Finance. The appointment is seen as a key step in strengthening the management of dormant financial assets and ensuring transparency in the administration of the Unclaimed Funds Trust Fund.