Sahel Security & Regional Stability: The Sahel faces one of its worst security crises in years after a major JNIM/FLA assault in Mali killed the defence minister, while Niger and Burkina Faso step up responses and Nigeria remains politically divided. Energy Infrastructure & Trade: Algeria’s SONATRACH has broken ground on its Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline segment, linking Nigeria–Niger–Algeria to feed Mediterranean routes into Europe, with the full line targeting 20–30 bcm annually. Global Macroeconomy: The World Bank cut its 2026 growth forecast to 2.5% and warned that the Iran war is driving higher energy prices, inflation, and borrowing costs, while pledging up to $60bn immediately for affected developing countries. Niger Business & Policy: Military-run Niger enacted a new penal code criminalising same-sex relations with heavy jail terms, a move that may shape social policy and foreign relations. Niger State Economy & Services: Niger State flagged off its 2026 Farm Input Support Programme for North Central, subsidising NPK fertiliser for 20,160 smallholders across four states. Local Power Relief: Electricity supply is gradually returning to Bida communities in Niger State after repair works on the Barrack Feeders network. Nigeria Security Pressure: Bandits attacked Awuma village near Lafia, killing a resident, abducting another, and robbing POS operators, adding to fears of insecurity spreading toward capitals. Protest & Governance: Civil society and labour groups plan a June 12 nationwide protest over insecurity and hardship, with calls for a security emergency to protect education and livelihoods. Tech & Consumer Access: Google is rolling out Ask Gemini in Chrome to Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa, expanding AI search and browsing features across Africa.