Security & Cost of Living: Niger State’s security commissioner says the government has identified trust and information-sharing gaps, including “compromised” informants, and is rolling out a framework to restore confidence between communities and security agencies. Fuel Prices: Nigeria’s NBS reports petrol (PMS) averaged ₦1,532.93/litre in April 2026, up 18.97% from March and 23.69% year-on-year—while diesel jumped 50.16% month-on-month. Niger Investment Push: Niger State secured an extra $684m from a consortium of Chinese firms for basic infrastructure tied to special agro-industrial processing zones, alongside a $163m IDB solar deal aimed at 24-hour power for 189 communities. AfCFTA Trade Momentum: At Biashara Afrika 2026 in Lomé, AfCFTA partners shifted from talk to practical cross-border trade and investment steps, with SMEs and entrepreneurs positioned at the centre. Startups & Local Capital: A roundup highlights African startups increasingly funded by local investors to tackle gaps in healthcare, finance, security, logistics and banking access. Education Under Siege: Coverage renews focus on Nigeria’s school kidnappings, including recent attacks where children remain unaccounted for weeks after abductions.