Sahel Security: Mali’s army says insurgents carried out attacks in five locations early Saturday, including Anefis and Aguelhoc in the north, Gao and Sevare in central Mali, and Kenioroba south of Bamako, with a Tuareg-led group claiming involvement. Regional Terror Finance & Networks: Analysts warn Islamic State affiliates are shifting from isolated operations to a more integrated regional network, raising pressure on Sahel states including Niger. Power & Trade Flows: Niger, Togo and Benin reportedly owe Nigeria about N17.45bn for electricity supplied in 2026 Q1, with low payment rates worsening liquidity in the power sector. Niger Environment & Compliance: Niamey is cracking down on plastic pollution, giving supermarkets six months to eliminate plastic carrier bags and setting prison terms and fines for offenders. Niger Investment Push: Niger State hands 500 hectares to Abuja Steel Mills/AIG for a solar farm and industrial park, aiming to attract investment and jobs. Tech & Skills: Google Play launches an equity-free Indie Games Fund for Africa, committing $1m to support small studios across 32 countries. Education Spending Benchmark: Kano tops ECOWAS education spending rankings in a University of Paris index, highlighting how budget execution can translate into measurable outcomes. ICC Exit Process: Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger begin formal withdrawal from the ICC, deepening their break with Western institutions.