NNSTF Funding Push: Northern governors in Nigeria voted to fund their own security war chest, approving ₦228bn over 24 months for the Northern Nigeria Security Trust Fund, aiming to reduce reliance on Abuja and improve continuity of operations. Kidnap Rescue Fallout: Nigeria’s army said it suffered “casualties” during the rescue of 40+ abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, with victims linked to Ansaru; the incident has reignited calls for faster, non-selective rescue efforts across states. Energy Payments Watch: Nigeria’s electricity regulator (NERC) reported weak Q1 2026 payments from Benin, Togo and Niger Republic, with only $4.82m paid out of $17.48m billed, leaving about $12.66m outstanding. Women Economic Empowerment in Niger: Niger State moved to domesticate its Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) policy, appointing women as vice chairpersons across all 25 LGAs to strengthen inclusive local governance. Digital Education Drive: Airtel Africa and UNICEF plan to connect 5,000 schools across 14 countries by 2027 to tackle poor internet access hurting learning. Sahel Security Diplomacy: Russia’s Lavrov met AU leadership and Sahel states, signaling deeper security and development cooperation as the Confederation of Sahel States seeks stronger regional support.