US–Niger Security Ties: The US delivered $2.3m in “non-lethal” equipment to Niger’s armed forces despite rights concerns, reigniting debate over safeguards and accountability. Niger–Benin Border Reset: Benin’s new president Romuald Wadagni visited Niamey and secured a commitment to reopen the border, with a joint expert committee set to remove obstacles within 15 days. Sahel Humanitarian Pressure: UN OCHA warns about 24m people needing aid across the Sahel as violence, displacement and climate shocks worsen, with funding at a decade low. Electricity & Regulation: Nigeria’s NERC net billing rules let solar users sell excess power back to the grid, while Anambra’s regulator signed new electricity rules to attract investment and protect consumers. Senate Contractor Debt Push: Nigeria’s Senate set up a six-member committee to liaise with the Finance Ministry to clear unpaid contractor debts, citing liabilities running into trillions. Education Under Fire: Nigeria’s Senate raised alarm over school abductions and insecurity, as fears grow for millions of pupils and teachers. Regional Business/Trade: Türkiye and Niger plan talks to expand cooperation, including security and broader bilateral ties. Governance Rankings: Phillips Consulting’s pSPI puts Lagos top in Nigeria, with Ogun, Kaduna, Adamawa and Niger States following.