By Uzair Adam

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will only announce his running mate for the 2027 presidential election after officially accepting the party’s nomination during the All Progressives Congress (APC) convention in 2026.

This clarification was made by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in an exclusive interview with Daily Trust on Thursday.

Amid growing speculations over the absence of Vice President Kashim Shettima’s name in recent endorsements for Tinubu, Onanuga dismissed any insinuations of a planned replacement, describing the situation as “a non-issue.”

“In a presidential system, the candidate comes first, and then a running mate is picked. That’s what happened under Buhari—he was nominated first before selecting a running mate. The same process will apply here,” he said.

Onanuga stressed that a decision will only be made after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) releases its timetable, prompting the party to hold its convention.

He also rejected the idea that Tinubu’s history of changing deputies during his tenure as Lagos State governor hints at plans to drop Shettima.

“Those were different political circumstances. In his first term, he and his deputy, Kofo, had issues and she had to leave. Femi Pedro replaced her, but later defected in the second term to pursue a governorship ambition. It’s wrong to frame this as a pattern of discarding deputies,” he explained.

Addressing the speculation of a strained relationship between Tinubu and Shettima, Onanuga dismissed such claims as baseless rumors.“From what I know, they have an excellent working relationship. The idea that there’s friction is just beer parlour gossip. Some even claim Seyi Tinubu is the vice president—it’s all nonsense,” he said.

When asked if the APC would repeat the controversial Muslim-Muslim ticket in 2027, Onanuga said the issue has lost relevance.

“There’s no Islamisation agenda. Christians are living freely, and the president even attended the Pope’s inauguration in Rome. Many of the speculated running mates are also Muslims—it’s not a matter of concern anymore,” he said.

Responding to criticisms over early endorsements before the official campaign season, Onanuga said it was a necessary reaction to opposition attacks.

“If the so-called coalition hadn’t started attacking the administration, we would’ve waited until next year. But we had to respond and show readiness. You can’t expect the president to stay silent while others plot openly,” he said.

He noted that the endorsements reflect public confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, even if the campaign has not yet formally begun.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A provocative billboard has appeared in Tel Aviv, calling on United States President Donald Trump to take military action in support of Israel amid rising tensions with Iran.

The sign boldly reads, “Mr President, finish the job!”

The call comes as pressure mounts for the United States to play a more active role in the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.

Although President Trump has reportedly approved a series of military plans — including the potential use of bunker-buster bombs — officials say he has not yet made a final decision on whether American forces will be directly involved in the conflict.

The situation remains tense as Washington weighs its options while closely monitoring developments in the Middle East.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

The U.S. Army has suspended Colonel Nathan McCormack following controversial remarks in which he described Israel as “our worst ‘ally,’” igniting a firestorm of political and military reaction.

In a statement made during a closed-door security forum that was later leaked online, Col. McCormack reportedly said: “Israel is our worst ‘ally.’ We get literally nothing out of the ‘partnership’ other than the enmity of millions of people in the Middle East, Africa and Asia.”

The Pentagon confirmed McCormack’s suspension on Tuesday, stating that the remarks are under formal review for possible violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and Department of Defence policies on political expression.

“While service members are entitled to personal opinions, public statements by active-duty officers that could affect diplomatic relations are taken seriously,” a Defence Department official said on condition of anonymity.

Col. McCormack, a senior officer with experience in multiple overseas deployments, has not yet commented publicly, but sources close to him say he stands by his critique and views it as a matter of strategic honesty.

His suspension has drawn sharply divided reactions. Critics called his comments inflammatory and damaging to U.S.-Israel relations, while supporters praised his candour, arguing that Washington’s unconditional support for Israel has long gone unquestioned within military circles.

The incident adds to a broader debate in Washington over the costs and consequences of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, especially amid ongoing international criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and Iran.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The United States government has announced a new policy requiring student visa applicants to make their social media profiles publicly accessible as part of the application process.

According to the Department of State, the move is intended to enhance security screening and allow immigration officials to better assess the backgrounds of applicants. The policy will apply to most non-immigrant visa categories, including the F-1 visa commonly used by international students.

Critics have raised concerns about privacy and potential bias, warning that the rule could discourage free expression online. Supporters, however, argue that it strengthens national security and helps identify potential threats.

The new requirement is expected to take effect later this year, with applicants needing to provide their social media handles and ensure that posts are visible for review.

By Uzair Adam 

The Gaya Emirate Council in Kano State has withdrawn the traditional title of Wazirin Gaya from Alhaji Usman Alhaji, a former Secretary to the State Government during the administration of ex-Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

The Daily Reality gathered that, although the council did not give detailed reasons, the decision may be linked to Alhaji’s recent public criticism of the Abba Kabir Yusuf-led government over alleged excessive borrowing, claims the government has since refuted.

In an official letter addressed to the former titleholder, the Secretary of the Gaya Emirate Council, Alhaji Bello Halilu, stated that the title was withdrawn due to “certain unavoidable circumstances,” adding that the decision takes immediate effect.

“The Council deeply appreciates the contributions and commitment of Alhaji Usman Alhaji during his period of service as Wazirin Gaya,” the letter read in part.

It further acknowledged his support for the traditional institution and his role in promoting the Emirate’s cultural heritage, stressing the council’s resolve to uphold the sanctity and integrity of traditional titles.

The public was urged to take note of the development.

Alhaji, who also serves as the National President of APC Patriotic Volunteers, had recently challenged the Kano State government to account for a $6.6 million external loan allegedly obtained between June and December 2023, according to figures from the Debt Management Office (DMO).

He also accused the administration of mismanaging N5 billion in ecological funds and rated the government’s performance poorly over the past two years.

By Uzair Adam 

Amid growing security concerns across the country, members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) on Wednesday held a closed-door meeting in Abuja with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar.

The meeting, chaired by the NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, took place at the NGF Secretariat. 

Among the governors in attendance were those of Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Oyo, Kwara, Osun, Plateau, Lagos, Nasarawa, Ekiti, Ebonyi, Kogi, Ondo, Imo, Cross River, Ogun, and Edo states.

Although the agenda was not officially disclosed, the gathering is believed to be connected to the escalating insecurity in parts of the country, particularly the recent deadly attack in Yelewata, Benue State.

Earlier in the day, President Bola Tinubu visited Benue and met with stakeholders at the Government House in Makurdi, where he condemned the killing of over 100 residents in Yelewata. 

He directed the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, to apprehend those responsible.

Sources confirmed that the Abuja meeting involved briefings from the NSA and the Minister of Defence. 

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, traditional rulers, and former state governors were also present at the Makurdi meeting.

President Tinubu queried the lack of arrests and urged the heads of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) to ramp up intelligence efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

North Korea has issued a forceful condemnation of Israel’s recent military operations targeting Iran, describing the actions as “a crime against humanity” and warning they could plunge the Middle East into deeper chaos.

In a statement published by the state news agency KCNA on Thursday, a spokesperson for the North Korean Foreign Ministry voiced strong concern over what was described as deliberate attacks on Iranian civilian, nuclear, and energy infrastructure.

The spokesperson said the operations by Israeli forces reflect “state-sponsored terrorism” and pose a grave threat to regional stability.

“The killing of civilians in Israeli attacks was an unpardonable crime against humanity,” the statement read.

Pyongyang also criticized Washington and its Western allies, accusing them of backing Israel’s actions and inflaming an already volatile situation.

“The present grave situation witnessed by the world clearly proves that Israel, supported and patronised by the US and the West, is a cancer-like entity for peace in the Middle East and a chief culprit of destroying global peace and security,” the Foreign Ministry spokesperson said.

The North Korean government also advised the United States and Europe against further involvement in the conflict.

It claimed that international opinion is watching closely as these powers, in its words, “fan up the flames of war” while blaming Iran for defending itself.

“The international community is strictly watching the US and Western forces fanning up the flames of war, taking issue with the legitimate sovereign right and exercise of the right to self-defence of Iran, the victim,” the spokesperson added.

The warning came as U.S. President Donald Trump declared that his administration had exhausted its patience with Iran.

His remarks followed a firm rejection by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei of U.S. calls for an unconditional surrender. Khamenei also warned Washington of “irreparable damage” if it chose to interfere.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump recently approved military plans targeting Iran but decided to pause implementation, reportedly in hopes that Tehran might reconsider its nuclear ambitions.

North Korea has cautioned that the ongoing escalation—fueled by Israeli aggression and Western involvement—risks pushing the region toward what it described as “an uncontrollable catastrophic phase.”

As tensions continue to rise, Pyongyang’s statement adds yet another voice to the chorus of global concern over the deepening crisis in the Middle East.

By Lawan Bukar Maigana

Political drama recently unfolded in Gombe State as tensions escalated between the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the APC National Vice Chairman (Northeast), Comrade Mustapha Salihu, Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, and Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum.  At the heart of the storm were whispers of a plot to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima. But in the eye of that storm stands Shettima himself; silent, composed, and unfazed.

There has been no speech, social media post, or press release. Shettima has not acknowledged the theatrics or addressed the speculations. There is no rebuttal, no outrage, just purposeful silence—a silence that suggests a man far more committed to duty than distractions.

While the speculations make the rounds in political circles, Vice President Shettima’s schedule remains unchanged. In January 2025, he represented Nigeria at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. There, he engaged in high-level sessions on digital trade and investment and co-chaired discussions focused on humanitarian resilience, building international bridges while avoiding the noise of local politics.

He used the global platform to launch the Humanitarian and Resilience Investment Roadmap for Africa, advocating for deeper public-private partnerships across the continent. As always, his approach was less about rhetoric and more about results.

Back home in Maiduguri, Borno State, the Vice President continues to prioritise grassroots development. He commissioned the Expanded National MSME Clinic and Fashion Hub, a project expected to create over 48,000 jobs annually. He also distributed unconditional grants to entrepreneurs and pledged continued support through public-private partnerships to boost local businesses.

Shettima also inaugurated the National Asset Restoration Programme, reinforcing his long-standing commitment to post-insurgency reconstruction in the Northeast.

His record across sectors reflects structural impact. Over 300,000 businesses have been supported, and more than one million jobs have been generated under initiatives he directly oversees. These aren’t political promises; they’re measurable achievements.

At the national level, he chairs the National Council on MSMEs, advocating for innovation, job security, and stronger synergy between the public and private sectors, all under the framework of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

As a champion of youth empowerment, Shettima spearheads human capital development efforts. He inaugurated the Nigeria Jubilee Programme Steering Committee, designed to train and equip thousands of graduates with marketable skills and workplace readiness.

He has also remained active in strengthening regional cooperation. At the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum in Maiduguri, he emphasised the importance of pairing military security with economic inclusion to secure lasting peace in the subregion.

In every assignment, Shettima has demonstrated sagacious loyalty, not only to his office and the President but also to the people he serves. Amid swirling conversations about his replacement, he has not lost focus. He has doubled down on leadership, service, and delivery.

His calculated silence is a strategy. He understands that emotional outbursts or political mudslinging could deepen divisions within the party. His restraint underscores a higher allegiance to duty, national stability, and unity.

The Vice President’s quiet determination sends a message: true leadership is about resolution, not reaction. In a political landscape often dominated by noise, Shettima has chosen the steady path of substance, letting results, not rumours, define his legacy.

Even as political storms gather, Shettima stays the course. His silence isn’t ignorance or weakness—it is discipline. And with his continued focus on economic development, job creation, and regional security, his work speaks louder than any rebuttal ever could.

Lawan Bukar Maigana is a journalist with PRNigeria and Economic Confidential, headquartered in Abuja. He can be reached via email: Lawanbukarmaigana@gmail.com.

By Anwar Usman

Sokoto State government has revealed its commitment to peace and security and expressed readiness to engage in dialogue with armed groups who are ready to surrender their weapons and embrace reconciliation.

This was revealed in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on Security, Col Ahmed Usman (rtd).

The government, in a statement, noted that “many historical conflicts have not ended solely through the use of force, but through meaningful dialogue, reaffirming that the state is open to negotiating with bandits who demonstrate a genuine commitment to surrender and reintegrate peacefully into society.”

It also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the service chiefs, security personnel, for their unwavering efforts in protecting the region.

“Their sacrifices are deeply appreciated. May Allah bless the souls of our fallen heroes and grant comfort to their families,” the statement read.

While commending the federal government over the proposed deployment of forest guards across the region, the Sokoto State Government stressed the importance of integrity and community trust in the recruitment process.

The government, however, reaffirmed its unwavering support for all initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace in the state.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

In a significant move, Meta has announced plans to begin displaying advertisements in WhatsApp, its popular messaging platform. The decision marks a major shift in WhatsApp’s business model, which has long promised an ad-free experience for its users.

Meta officials stated that the ads will initially appear in the app’s Status feature—similar to Instagram Stories—and may later expand to other areas, such as the chat list. The company says this step is aimed at helping businesses reach customers more effectively, while generating new revenue from WhatsApp, which boasts over 2 billion users worldwide.

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions. While some view it as an inevitable evolution of the platform, others fear it may compromise user privacy and the simplicity that made WhatsApp popular.

Meta has yet to confirm an official launch date but assured users that end-to-end encryption in personal chats will remain intact.