The Nigeria Democratic Congress has unveiled Mustapha Kwankwaso as its deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 election in Kano State, pairing him with the party’s governorship flagbearer, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo.

Mustapha is the son of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a prominent political figure and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement. His emergence is being viewed as a strategic move that could strengthen the party’s grassroots appeal ahead of the 2027 governorship contest.

The announcement was confirmed on Monday by party and movement officials, who described the selection as part of efforts to promote unity, inclusiveness, and effective representation within the NDC.

Gwarzo, a former deputy governor of Kano State, had earlier emerged as the NDC’s governorship candidate following consultations among party leaders and stakeholders. His candidacy is seen as a key component of the party’s strategy to challenge for power in the state in 2027.

Political observers believe the choice of Mustapha Kwankwaso could reshape alliances within Kano’s political landscape, given the influence of the Kwankwasiyya movement and the continued relevance of the Kwankwaso political family in the state’s affairs.

With the election cycle gradually taking shape, attention is expected to focus on how the Gwarzo-Mustapha ticket positions itself against rival parties and candidates in what is likely to be a highly competitive race.

Global energy markets are in freefall after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a breakthrough deal with Iran to end the war and completely reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz.

​In immediate response to the diplomatic breakthrough, Brent crude—the global oil benchmark—dropped sharply by 4.7% to $83.24 (£61.94) a barrel. Financial markets reacted with a massive sigh of relief, sending shares in Asia and Europe jumping as geopolitical tensions eased.

​The historic agreement was reached with the help of Pakistan, which has served as a key mediator throughout the conflict. According to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, the United States and Iran are scheduled to formally sign a memorandum of understanding in Switzerland this Friday. Trump further confirmed on Sunday that the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports would end, and promised that the Strait of Hormuz would be open “toll free.”

​The resolution comes after a devastating three-month disruption to the global economy. The world has lost millions of barrels of oil and gas supply since the war closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint that handles a fifth of the world’s total oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.

Relief is expected to materialize over the coming weeks. According to Iran’s semi-official Mehr news agency, the draft deal calls for reopening the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days under Iranian arrangements, paving the way for a full restoration of global energy trade.

Former South African President has called on African nations to let go of practices, policies, and attitudes that impede growth and development, urging leaders to embrace reforms that promote prosperity and unity across the continent.

Mbeki made the remarks while addressing stakeholders at a public engagement, where he reflected on Africa’s development journey and the challenges facing many countries in the region.

According to him, sustainable progress can only be achieved when nations are willing to confront issues that undermine economic growth, good governance, and social advancement. He stressed that Africa must remain focused on innovation, education, industrialization, and regional cooperation.

The former president noted that the continent possesses immense human and natural resources but must adopt policies that unlock its full potential and improve the living standards of its people.

Mbeki also emphasized the importance of strong institutions, accountable leadership, and inclusive governance, arguing that these factors are essential for building stable and prosperous societies.

He urged African leaders to prioritize long-term national interests over short-term political considerations, adding that meaningful development requires collective commitment and strategic planning.

His comments come amid ongoing discussions about economic transformation, governance reforms, and regional integration efforts across Africa.

Observers say Mbeki’s message reinforces the growing call for African nations to pursue policies that encourage innovation, investment, and sustainable development while addressing structural challenges that continue to slow progress.