Sahel Security Watch: A new analysis warns the Islamic State is shifting from scattered local insurgencies to a more integrated Africa network, with growing convergence between the Sahel branch and ISWAP—raising the stakes for governments across the Mali-Burkina Faso-Niger and Lake Chad corridors. Border Defence & Mining: Nigeria says it’s strengthening military cooperation with Benin and Niger via a new joint security zone to stop militant infiltration, while also flagging illegal mining as a key funding source for armed groups. US-Nigeria Military Update: The US has withdrawn most troops deployed for Lake Chad counterterrorism but will keep intelligence sharing and partnership support. ECOWAS Integration Push: Tinubu urges ECOWAS to move from a consumer market to a production-driven bloc to power industrialisation and intra-regional trade. Niger State Investment: Niger’s government hands 500 hectares to AIG’s Abuja Steel Mills for a solar farm and industrial park, aiming to attract investors and create jobs. Niamey Plastic Crackdown: Niamey gives supermarkets six months to phase out plastic carrier bags, with prison and fines for offenders. Tech & Jobs: Google Play launches a $1m Indie Games Fund for Africa to back small studios with equity-free capital, mentorship and technical support. Terrorism Justice: Nigeria reports 1,721 terrorism convictions under its mass trial programme since 2017. Education Spotlight (Kano): Kano tops ECOWAS sub-national education spending rankings after a state education emergency, citing higher budget execution and school investment.