Regional Transport Finance: Rand Merchant Bank sealed a $1.8bn deal to fund the 374km Kano–Maradi railway, a major Nigeria–Niger transport link expected to cut logistics costs and boost trade. Infrastructure & Connectivity Grants: The AIIB-backed Central Corridor railway in Algeria won a $630,000 grant for technical studies, with a longer-term vision to connect north–south routes toward Niger and the Sahel. Sovereign Legal Dispute: Niger asked a New York federal judge to block seizure of its $35m Manhattan “town house” tied to a $7.6m arbitration award, arguing the property is used for sovereign purposes. Mining Sovereignty: Niger’s mines ministry met GoviEx to reshape the fiscal, legal and operational terms for the long-delayed Madaouela uranium project, signaling stronger state participation. Energy & Power Risks: TCN warned that vandalism is escalating in Niger State, with 14 power towers destroyed and repair costs rising—threatening supply and investment confidence. Digital Finance Push: A new focus on Niger’s fintech challenge highlights how digital payments and services can reach dispersed, low-income communities and support small businesses. Anti-LGBTQ Law Wave: Niger’s new penal code criminalising same-sex relations (up to 20 years) adds to a broader anti-LGBTQ crackdown across Africa, reshaping the business and rights environment.