The Cable®

🚨: Eid El Kabir: Nigerian Military Warns North-East Residents to Avoid Crowded Areas During Sallah Celebrations 
The Nigerian military has issued a strong security advisory to residents of the North-East region to avoid crowded areas during the upcoming Eid El Kabir (Sallah) celebrations due to heightened threats from terrorist groups. In a statement on May 26, 2026, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North-East) Operation Hadin Kai, urged residents to remain vigilant, celebrate within their immediate communities, and conduct Eid prayers close to home while avoiding large gatherings where possible. Credible intelligence indicates that remnants of Boko Haram Terrorists (BHTs) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters may attempt to exploit the festive period with attacks involving suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in densely populated areas such as markets, motor parks, banking halls, and prayer grounds. The Theatre Command has deployed extensive security measures, including forward-deployed troops, intensified patrols, surveillance assets, and coordination with sister agencies and community vigilance groups. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious movements immediately. The military assured the public that threats have been anticipated and forces are fully prepared to ensure a safe celebration period.

@qwofi_manuel Good morning! Let's grow together and create an active community.

Good morning from Accra. To my people in Lagos, good morning. To the diaspora in London, Toronto, Houston — good morning. We are all building the same thing from different time zones. Let's get it. #QwofiManuel #QMSBloc

⚡Trending : Palm Fruit Left to Rot as Indonesia’s Export Revamp Hits Small Farmers 
Indonesian palm oil refiners are shunning purchases from smallholders, leaving fresh fruit bunches to rot in plantations as the government’s new commodity export overhaul creates uncertainty. Several processors have halted buying from independent farmers while awaiting details on the radical export framework announced by President Prabowo Subianto earlier in May 2026. The policy aims to route key commodities including palm oil through a new state-controlled body to tighten oversight, boost revenues, and curb leakages. The disruption risks squeezing incomes for small growers, who form a major part of Indonesia’s palm oil sector, and could eventually crimp overall supplies of the world’s most-used vegetable oil. This comes amid broader market confusion, with spot cargoes trading at discounts even as futures prices fluctuate. The transition to the new system is expected to begin in June 2026, with full implementation later in the year.

⚡Trending : OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Says AI Unlikely to Trigger ‘Jobs Apocalypse’ 
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stated on May 26, 2026, that artificial intelligence is unlikely to cause a global “jobs apocalypse,” admitting he had overestimated its near-term impact on white-collar employment. Speaking virtually at a Commonwealth Bank of Australia conference in Sydney, Altman said he was initially worried about widespread job losses, particularly at the entry level. However, he noted that AI has not eliminated as many such positions as he once feared, describing himself as “delighted to be wrong.” Altman attributed this to the irreplaceable “human part” of many jobs, emphasizing the value people place on personal interactions. He shared a personal example of using AI for Slack and email responses but reverting to handling them himself because recipients care about genuine human engagement. While acknowledging ongoing AI-driven job changes at companies like HSBC, Amazon, and CBA, Altman believes the overall employment picture will differ significantly from earlier pessimistic predictions.

⚡Trending : Danish Central Bank Warns of Housing Risks as Price Gains Spread Beyond Copenhagen 
Denmark’s central bank (Nationalbanken) has issued a fresh warning on financial stability risks as a sharp surge in Copenhagen home prices spreads to the rest of the country. In its latest financial stability report released on May 26, 2026, the bank highlighted growing risks to lenders from the rapid price increases. Apartment prices in the Danish capital soared 25% in the 12 months through April, according to Boligsiden data. The central bank had already flagged this potential spillover scenario late last year. The report notes that the housing boom, if unchecked, could increase vulnerabilities in the financial system through higher household debt and exposure for banks. This comes amid broader economic pressures in Denmark, with the central bank closely monitoring lending practices and the potential for a correction in the overheated property market.

🚨Breaking : Atiku Abubakar Wins ADC Presidential Primary in Zamfara with 60,500 Votes 
The Zamfara State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the winner of its presidential primary held on May 26, 2026. Atiku polled a landslide 60,500 votes, defeating Mohammed Hayatuddeen (446 votes) and Rotimi Amaechi (191 votes). The primary was conducted across all 147 wards in the state’s 14 local government areas, with 63,484 registered party members and 61,137 votes cast. Namadi Musa, Chairman of the ADC Presidential Primary Election Committee and returning officer, announced the results in Gusau on Monday, declaring Atiku the party’s presidential candidate for Zamfara in line with ADC guidelines and the Electoral Act, 2026. The process was monitored by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials and described as peaceful. This marks an early victory for Atiku in the ongoing ADC presidential primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

🚨Breaking : Ethio Telecom Lists on Ethiopia’s Bourse in Nation’s Historic First IPO 
Ethio Telecom, Ethiopia’s state-owned telecommunications giant, officially listed on the country’s nascent stock exchange on May 26, 2026 — more than a year after closing its initial public offering (IPO). This marks Ethiopia’s first-ever IPO and a significant milestone for the East African nation’s efforts to develop its capital markets. The government had offered 100 million shares but sold just under 11% of the stock to investors, raising 3.2 billion Ethiopian birr (approximately $20 million). The modest uptake reflects a cautious response from local investors amid economic challenges, though the listing itself represents a foundational step for the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX). The development follows the IPO launch in late 2024, which aimed to broaden ownership and attract capital to one of Africa’s oldest telecom operators. The listing comes as Ethiopia pushes to modernize its financial infrastructure and open up key state enterprises to private participation.

Today in History – May 26, 1967 Following consultations with leaders across the Eastern Region, General Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu decreed the secession of the Eastern Region from Nigeria. This pivotal moment, driven by deep tensions, fears, and unresolved grievances following years of political crisis, marked a turning point that would lead to the formal declaration of the Republic of Biafra days later and the tragic Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970). It remains one of the most significant and painful chapters in Nigeria’s history; a story of ambition, division, loss, resilience, and the high cost of conflict. Over a million lives were lost, yet the spirit of survival and unity in the face of adversity continues to shape the nation today. History teaches us that dialogue, fairness, and understanding are vital to prevent division and build lasting peace. What lessons from this period do you think are most important for Nigeria and Africa today? Share your thoughts respectfully 👇 #TodayInHistory #OnThisDay #NigerianHistory #Biafra #UnityInDiversity

🚨Breaking : China, Pakistan Agree on Upgraded CPEC and Stronger Security Ties During Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Beijing, China and Pakistan reached a new broad consensus to accelerate the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), upgrade Gwadar port, and improve the Karakoram Highway. Both sides welcomed third-party participation in projects and committed to higher-quality infrastructure. Pakistan pledged enhanced security for Chinese personnel amid past attacks. The deal also covers regional issues, with Pakistan reaffirming support for the one-China policy and joint counter-terrorism efforts. The moves aim to deepen their “all-weather” partnership.

⚡Trending : Warning to Critical Minerals Buyers: Avoid “Butter Mountains” and Aluminium Floods Western governments pouring tens of billions into critical minerals to reduce reliance on China risk creating oversupply gluts, similar to historical cases like European “butter mountains,” Russian aluminium floods, and Australian wool surpluses in the 1980s-90s. The US has allocated over $20 billion, including $10 billion for stockpiles, while Australia has committed at least A$13 billion. Combined Western pledges to rare earths projects already exceed the sector’s current market value, with some rare earths expected to move into surplus soon. Industry experts urge better coordination to avoid flooding markets and crashing prices. While stockpiles currently pose limited risk, unchecked incentives could backfire despite efforts to secure supply chains for defence, EVs, and tech.

🚨 Breaking : Tampa Bay Rays’ Wander Franco Avoids Jail Time with Suspended Sentence in Sexual Abuse Case Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco will not serve jail time after a Dominican Republic court handed him a suspended sentence on Monday for the sexual abuse of a minor. Judge Jose Ramon Nunez cited “particular circumstances” of the case for the leniency. Franco was convicted in a retrial for abuse that began in December 2022 when he was 21 and the victim was 14. The victim’s mother was also convicted of trafficking the minor and extortion. Franco, a 2023 All-Star who signed a $182 million contract with the Rays in 2021, has been on leave without pay since the allegations surfaced in 2023. Leaving court, he asked fans to continue supporting him and trust in God. The Rays said they respect the legal process and will continue working with MLB’s abuse policy office, but did not comment on his future with the team. The ruling can still be appealed. (Reuters, May 26, 2026)

🚨Breaking : Malaysia Imposes 10% Import Duty on Gold Bars, Jolting Bullion Trade Malaysia has introduced a 10% import duty on certain gold bar shipments, disrupting the bullion market in the Southeast Asian nation. According to traders and dealers, some inbound cargoes have faced the new charge since early May 2026. Bank Muamalat Malaysia confirmed the Royal Malaysian Customs’ 10% tax on LBMA-standard physical gold bars, effective from June 8, which will raise costs for investors. A one-kilogram bar could see an extra ~RM45,000 added at current prices. The move comes amid strong global gold prices and heightened investor interest in Asia. It is expected to increase costs for physical gold holdings while potentially affecting trade flows and premiums in Malaysia’s market. This development follows similar tariff actions in other countries aimed at managing imports.

🚨Breaking : Manchester City Make Enzo Fernández a Top Summer Target as Maresca Pushes for Reunion Manchester City have identified Chelsea and Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández as one of their top targets for the summer transfer window. Incoming manager Enzo Maresca is a huge admirer of his former player and is strongly pushing for the move. The pair enjoyed a strong relationship during Maresca’s time at Chelsea, and initial talks have already taken place behind the scenes. Fernández, a World Cup winner, is reportedly open to the reunion and keen on Champions League football. City see the 25-year-old as a key midfield reinforcement, especially amid uncertainty around players like Rodri. However, any deal would likely involve a significant fee, with Fernández protected by a high release clause at Stamford Bridge. This potential blockbuster transfer adds intrigue to the summer window, as Chelsea may face losing a key player to their Premier League rivals.

🚨Breaking : Oil Rises as US Strikes on Iran Dampen Peace Deal Hopes; Stocks Mixed Oil prices climbed on Tuesday after US military strikes on Iranian boats and missile sites in southern Iran, just as optimism grew for a potential peace deal to end the three-month war. The strikes occurred while Iranian officials held talks in Doha with Qatar on a US-Iran agreement, but both sides played down hopes for an imminent breakthrough. This kept market optimism in check, with the dollar gaining safe-haven appeal and global stocks ending mixed. Investors are watching for any deal that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil route potentially within 30 days of hostilities ending. Until then, elevated energy prices are expected to fuel inflation and pressure central banks. Elsewhere, Sri Lanka’s central bank surprised markets with a 100 basis point rate hike to combat inflation and currency pressure from the Gulf crisis. The Bank of Japan noted Middle East developments will influence its rate decisions, while traders now price in a Fed rate hike by December. US consumer confidence data is due later Tuesday, likely showing slight weakness amid higher gasoline prices.

🚨Breaking : Haftar’s Son Belgacem Uses Eastern Libya Reconstruction Boom to Chase National Legitimacy Belgacem Haftar, 46, son of eastern Libya’s military chief Khalifa Haftar and head of the Libyan Development and Reconstruction Fund (LDRF), is leveraging a major infrastructure push to build political credibility. In an AFP interview, he highlighted rapid progress in Benghazi, Derna, and Bayda, including new bridges, schools, hospitals, apartment blocks, and the reopened Benghazi stadium claiming the east has achieved more in two years than Gaddafi did in 42. The LDRF, funded largely by oil revenues, focuses on fixing decades of neglect, while the Haftar family maintains tight control over the east and its resources. Belgacem positions the family as a capable alternative to Tripoli’s government, open to expanding projects nationwide if requested. The reconstruction drive blends tangible governance with a clear bid for broader legitimacy amid Libya’s ongoing division. Source : AFP (May 26, 2026)

⚡Trending : Clean Energy Trade Ripe for ‘Smart Money’, Singapore Envoy Says Renewables are poised to attract fresh, large-scale investment from sophisticated investors as energy security concerns and supply chain resilience drive stronger demand and higher revenues across the clean energy sector, according to Singapore’s chief climate diplomat. Growing global demand for critical inputs and components in the clean energy industry such as minerals, materials, and technologies could push prices higher in the coming years unless industrial capacity expands quickly enough to keep pace, Climate Action Ambassador Ravi Menon told Bloomberg News on Friday. Menon emphasized that the sector offers attractive opportunities for “smart money” capable of navigating the risks and capitalizing on the long-term structural shifts toward decarbonization.

⚡Trending : Katsina Governor Radda Suspends Aide Linked to Abduction of 8-Year-Old Child 
The Katsina State Government has suspended Nura Aliyu-Garwa, a former Senior Special Assistant on Community Development to Governor Dikko Radda, over his alleged links to a kidnapping syndicate. Aliyu-Garwa is among suspects connected to the abduction of an eight-year-old boy at Sardauna Estate in Katsina metropolis. He was previously suspended for allegedly diverting empowerment materials meant for communities in Batsari Local Government Area before declaring interest in contesting for a seat in the state House of Assembly. Governor Radda described the development as unfortunate. He commended the police for their efforts and urged residents to provide credible information to security agencies to combat insecurity.

⚡Trending : Ferrari Shares Drop 7% After Launch of First Fully Electric Vehicle ‘Luce’ 
Ferrari shares fell more than 7% on Tuesday after the Italian luxury carmaker unveiled its first fully electric vehicle, the Luce, in Rome. The model, whose name means “light,” marks a significant shift for the brand known for its high-performance combustion engines. It features a departure from traditional Ferrari aesthetics amid softening demand for EVs from other luxury makers like Porsche and Lamborghini. The Milan-listed stock (RACE) has also declined nearly 27% over the past 12 months.

⚡Trending : B&Q Owner Kingfisher Reports Resilient Sales Amid Retail Headwinds 
Kingfisher, the UK owner of B&Q and Screwfix, posted resilient first-quarter results, with DIY demand holding steady despite cost pressures in the retail sector. The group highlighted stable like-for-like sales performance, supported by strong e-commerce growth, trade customer initiatives, and seasonal demand at B&Q. UK operations led the way, benefiting from market share gains and digital expansions amid broader retail challenges. This comes as the home improvement market faces ongoing cost headwinds, yet Kingfisher’s focus on trade sales, big-ticket items, and marketplace platforms helped offset pressures. The company continues to demonstrate strength in a mixed consumer environment.

🚨Breaking : North Korea Fires Short-Range Ballistic Missiles in Latest Weapons Test 
North Korea launched multiple projectiles, including short-range ballistic missiles, into waters off its west coast on Tuesday, South Korea’s military said. The missiles were fired from the Jongju area in North Pyongan Province around 1 p.m. local time and flew approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) before landing in the Yellow Sea, according to South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff. No damage was reported to aircraft, ships, or surrounding areas. This marks Pyongyang’s first known ballistic missile test since April and the latest in a series of weapons demonstrations this year. South Korea condemned the launches as a violation of UN Security Council resolutions. The activity comes amid heightened regional tensions, including joint U.S.-South Korea military drills that North Korea routinely denounces as invasion rehearsals.