By Anas Abbas

As Muslims prepare for the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, popularly known as Sallah, cattle dealers are expressing deep concern over poor patronage in major livestock markets despite the festive season drawing near.

Traditionally, the period before Sallah witnesses massive sales of rams, cows and camels as Muslim faithful purchase animals for sacrifice, which referred to as “Layya.” However, this year’s market atmosphere appears unusually quiet as many residents struggle with the harsh economic realities facing the country.

The Daily Reality (TDR) gathered that  several livestock markets revealed that while buyers troop to inspect animals and negotiate prices, only a few eventually make purchases. Traders say the situation is affecting their businesses seriously, leaving many uncertain about recovering the huge capital invested in the animals.

According to some sellers, the high cost of transportation, feeding and insecurity along supply routes has forced prices upward, making it difficult for average Nigerians to afford livestock for the religious exercise.

A cattle dealer, Musa Ibrahim, lamented that sales this season are far below expectations compared to previous years.

“In the past, people would buy animals weeks before Sallah, but now many only come to ask for prices and leave because they cannot afford them,” he said.

Mallam Ibrahim Indabo, a cattle dealer at Wudil Market, told TDR that most buyers now prefer medium-sized cows priced between N500,000 and N700,000, rather than the bigger ones valued at about N2.5 million.
He explained that the economic hardship has forced many customers to settle for affordable options.

“I sold more than 10 medium-sized cows during the last Wudil market day, leaving me mainly with the bigger ones,” he said.

At Maigatari Market, TDR observed that livestock prices remain relatively stable and affordable contrary to public expectations.
Speaking with TDR, Mallam Inuwa Yahaya of Maigatari said many people wrongly believe the prices are beyond reach.

“Some people think the prices are too high and unaffordable, but the slow sales and lack of money in the hands of the people have actually helped stabilize prices,” he stated.

Similarly, at Ungogo Market in Kano, Alhaji Chika confirmed to TDR that business activities have been moving slowly.

According to him, traders are still optimistic that patronage will improve significantly as Sallah draws closer.
“The market is moving slowly for now, but we expect better sales and more customers when Sallah is just two days away,” he said.

Some prospective buyers who spoke also admitted that they are finding it difficult to balance household expenses with the desire to fulfill the religious obligation.
A civil servant, Abdullahi Sani, noted that many families are now considering contributing money jointly to buy a single animal due to the high prices.

Experts say the increasing cost of commodities, fuel prices and general inflation continue to reduce disposable income among citizens, forcing many households to prioritize basic needs over festive spending.

Despite the slow sales, traders remain hopeful that patronage may improve as Sallah draws closer, as many buyers traditionally wait until the final days before making purchases.

Nevertheless, the mood across several livestock markets remains mixed, with sellers anxiously watching and hoping for better turnout in the days ahead.

By Ishaka Mohammed

The Arewa Business Support Fund (Arewa BSF) has announced its website accessibility ahead of the official launch of the investment initiative set for June 1, 2026.

The announcement was made through the official X handle of the Fund @ArewaBSF. Part of it reads, “We are excited to officially announce that the portal for Arewa Business Support Fund is now LIVE!”

Arewa BSF is a private-sector initiative aimed at supporting youth-led businesses in northern Nigeria, regardless of the ownersʼ origins.

THE DAILY REALITY earlier reported how Aliko Dangoteʼs son-in-law, Captain Jamil Abubakar, raised 100 million naira to support entrepreneurs in northern Nigeria.

This Paper also gathered that beneficiaries would enjoy free mentorship and consultancy in addition to interest-free business loans, which, when repaid, would be used to support more businesses. By implication, every financial contribution is a donation. At the time of filing this report, there are 12 financial contributors.

The website https://arewabusinessfund.com/ has more information for interested entrepreneurs and contributors.

By Ismail Bello Darazo 

The technological landscape is rapidly evolving, changing how we live and work. The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) presents numerous opportunities, particularly when it is fully explored and effectively utilised. 

AI can simplify complex concepts and deliver more concise, efficient solutions. Its growing application across various aspects of life continues to enhance convenience and productivity in everyday activities.

However, the core objective of AI development is to support and simplify human efforts, not to replace human intelligence. In practice, the way AI is used is gradually shifting from collaboration to dependence.

AI is now deeply embedded in our daily routines, often substituting rather than complementing our cognitive abilities. It is increasingly common to observe individuals who struggle to articulate even simple communications, such as WhatsApp group messages, without relying on AI tools. Likewise, some managers no longer trust their own analytical capabilities for basic business decision-making, preferring instead to depend on AI-generated outputs.

One of the most significant consequences of this overreliance is the gradual erosion of human cognitive capacity. When individuals consistently delegate thinking and decision-making to AI systems, they risk weakening their natural abilities to reason, analyse, and make sound judgments. Over time, this dependency can reduce confidence in independent thinking and limit the development of critical problem-solving skills.

Hybrid intelligence systems, which integrate human expertise with artificial intelligence, are increasingly recognized as essential for addressing complex and multifaceted challenges. By combining human intuition, ethical reasoning, and contextual awareness with the computational strength of AI, more balanced and effective outcomes can be achieved.

However, placing AI at the forefront without adequate human oversight may lead to inhuman or ethically flawed decisions, as AI systems remain limited in their ability to fully replicate human judgment, values, and nuanced understanding.

In conclusion, AI, as a defining technology of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is here to stay. The responsibility lies with us to utilise and fully explore its potential without undermining our natural cognitive abilities. 

Rather than allowing AI to dominate human processes, it should be positioned as a centre of collaboration where human intelligence and machine capabilities complement each other to produce more balanced and effective outcomes. In this context, AI is not a replacement for human thinking, but a strategic partner that enhances our capacity to reason, make informed decisions, and drive innovation.

Ismail Bello Darazo wrote from Bauchi State via Ismailbello054@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has expressed strong confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will emerge victorious in the 2027 presidential election. He maintained that no opposition figure, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, poses any threat to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) retaining power.

Namadi made the remarks after participating in the APC presidential primary election at his polling unit in Kafin Hausa Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

He also restated his pledge to mobilise over one million votes for President Tinubu in the forthcoming general election. According to him, the target is achievable due to the level of support the APC currently enjoys across Jigawa State.

The governor pointed to the high voter turnout recorded during the party’s primary election as evidence of public confidence in both the President and the APC-led administration. He said the orderly and peaceful conduct of the exercise also reflected respect for democratic principles and internal party processes.

Namadi added that the outcome of the APC primary signals what may unfold in the 2027 elections, predicting a decisive win for the party across the country.

He further described Jigawa as a key stronghold of the APC, noting that the state is among those with a large number of registered voters nationwide. He maintained that party supporters remain fully prepared to meet the goal of delivering over one million votes for President Tinubu.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Manchester City have opened discussions over a move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as plans continue for the arrival of Enzo Maresca as their next manager.

Sky Germany reports that the Argentina international sits at the top of Manchester City’s summer transfer shortlist. It also states that ‘initial talks have already taken place behind the scenes’.

The report further notes that Maresca, who is expected to replace Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium ahead of next season, ‘is particularly keen’ on bringing the World Cup winner to his new team.

Maresca is expected to sign an initial three-year contract with Manchester City. His appointment is expected to be finalised ahead of the new campaign.

The Italian coach previously worked with Fernandez during their time together at Chelsea, where both developed a strong professional relationship.

Fernandez has previously spoken critically about Chelsea following Maresca’s departure from Stamford Bridge earlier in the year.

The midfielder has also faced growing speculation about his future at Chelsea, especially after the club’s exit from the Champions League two months ago. His situation was further complicated after he received a two-game suspension linked to comments about a potential move to Real Madrid during the last international break.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

United States President Donald Trump has suggested that a peace agreement with Iran is close to completion, saying key parts of the deal have already been negotiated, including plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump made the remarks on Saturday in a post on his Truth Social account, where he said he had held discussions with several Middle Eastern leaders. He explained that an agreement had reached an advanced stage but still required final approval.

He stated that the arrangement remains subject to final agreement between the United States, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and other involved countries.

Trump also said:

“Final aspects and details of the Deal are currently being discussed, and will be announced shortly.

“In addition to many other elements of the Agreement, the Strait of Hormuz will be opened,” he said.

Further details of the proposed deal are expected to be made public once the remaining terms are concluded.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released a young man, Mr. Ya’u Mohammed from Gashua in Bade Local Government Area of Yobe State, after findings showed that he had no link to any alleged wrongdoing.

The Service, under the leadership of Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, also provided him with ₦2 million. The financial support was aimed at helping him settle back into society and start a means of livelihood for himself and his family.

The development was made known by the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Yobe State Governor, Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam (rtd), during a visit to the DSS State Command Headquarters in Damaturu. The young man was formally handed over to him before reuniting with his family.

General Abdulsalam said his visit to the Command was to verify the circumstances that led to the detention and subsequent release of Mr. Ya’u Mohammed. He explained that follow-up reviews and investigations conducted by the Service cleared the young man of any involvement in the allegation that led to his arrest.

The retired military officer described the outcome as unusual within his long years in public service. He noted that it was the first time he had witnessed a situation where an individual, after being cleared, was released and also supported financially for reintegration.

He added that the action reflected a clear commitment by the Director General of the DSS to justice, compassion, and rehabilitation. He further called on other security agencies to maintain respect for the rule of law and uphold human rights in order to build stronger public confidence.

After his release, Mr. Ya’u Mohammed expressed gratitude to God for what he described as a difficult but defining experience. He also thanked the DSS Director General for the support given to him and promised to use the ₦2 million responsibly to build a stable livelihood and support his family.

His father, Alhaji Muhammadu, was visibly emotional during the reunion with his son. He expressed appreciation to the DSS leadership, describing the intervention as compassionate and commendable.

By Uzair Adam

Abdulaziz Umar Ganduje, son of former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Dawakin Tofa/Tofa/Rimin Gado Federal Constituency in Kano State under the New Democratic Coalition (NDC).

The Daily Reality reports that Abdulaziz’s decision to obtain the NDC nomination form marks a significant political shift from the Ganduje family’s long-standing ties with the APC and signals his alignment with the political movement of former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

A video circulating on social media showed Abdulaziz speaking about his political ambition and his engagement with Kwankwaso, further fueling speculations about his growing involvement in the Kwankwasiyya political camp.

The NDC, which was recently adopted by Kwankwaso following his reported exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has continued to gain momentum across Kano State with increasing support from political actors and grassroots mobilisers.

Political observers believe Abdulaziz’s entry into the race could intensify competition in the constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections, especially with expectations of a keen contest between the NDC and the ruling APC.

Analysts also say the development may further reshape political alliances in Kano and deepen the rivalry between the Kwankwasiyya movement and the APC structure in the state.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to officially receive the certificate of return and the party flag as the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate for the 2027 elections on Sunday.

The Presidential Primary Elections Committee will present the items at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja following the nationwide collation of primary election results.

The ceremony will be attended by APC governors, members of the National Executive Committee, the National Working Committee, and the National Assembly, as well as party stalwarts.

In a statement released on Saturday, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, confirmed the event.

The presentation marks a formal step in the APC’s preparation for the 2027 general elections, with President Tinubu expected to lead the party’s campaign for a second term.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Yusuf Tuggar, former minister of foreign affairs, has failed in his bid to secure the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket for the 2027 general election in Bauchi State.

The primary election, held on Saturday, produced Mohammed Abubakar, a former governor of the state, as the party’s candidate after he defeated Tuggar and five other aspirants.

John Abang, who chaired the APC governorship and house of assembly primary committee in Bauchi, announced that Abubakar emerged winner with a total of 57,517 votes.

Tuggar came second with 26,001 votes. Nura Manu Soro polled 13,638 votes, while Bala Wunti scored 13,648 votes. Kabir Ma’aji recorded 8,157 votes.

Abang said the votes were collated after the exercise conducted across the state and confirmed Abubakar as the party’s flagbearer for the 2027 election.

On March 30, Tuggar stepped down from his ministerial position following a directive from President Bola Tinubu, which required political appointees seeking elective offices in 2027 to resign.