Sahel Security & Local Impact: A newly emerged Kebbi terrorist group, “Sai Mallam,” is reportedly demanding N5 million monthly levies from at least 10 rural communities in Argungu and Zuru, threatening attacks and farmland seizures, raising fresh pressure on state and police responses. Monetary Union Watch: Former CBN governor Muhammadu Sanusi II warned ECOWAS not to rush the ECO common currency, saying weak economies, poor fiscal discipline and fragile institutions could doom the project. Niger Youth & Agribusiness Skills: Nigeria and Niger trained 100 youths, women and agripreneurs on hydroponic farming, focusing on system setup, seedling production, nutrient and water management, and agribusiness development. Power & Industry Push: Energy leaders and the World Bank-backed Mission 300 highlight scaling electricity access as a business enabler, while renewable-energy advocacy continues to target cheaper power for manufacturing. Governance & Revenue Accountability (Niger): Niger State police arrested eight NSIRS staff over alleged diversion of billions of naira, with investigations and possible prosecution underway. Regional Trade Infrastructure: Ghana’s Keta Port project advances after GPHA secured an EIA permit and intensifies stakeholder engagement, positioning the port as a logistics gateway for landlocked Sahel states including Niger. Politics in Niger State: Niger Assembly suspended plenary amid a rift with the executive following APC primary fallout, with lawmakers demanding unresolved issues be addressed before sitting resumes.