Sahel Diplomacy & Currency: Kano Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II urged ECOWAS to reconcile with Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, warning their withdrawal has weakened regional integration, security cooperation and economic opportunities. Niger State Politics: Niger State House of Assembly suspended plenary indefinitely over “unresolved issues” with the executive, following APC primary fallout and lawmakers’ claims of betrayal and lack of campaign support. Security Watch: Kebbi State raised alarm over the “Sai Mallam” terrorist sect spreading from Zuru to Argungu, while Nigerien-linked terrorism and arms trafficking convictions in Sokoto saw three men sentenced to death by hanging. Energy & Business Growth: Mission 300 hit 50 million electricity connections across Africa, while Nigeria and Niger-related power moves include solar mini-grid expansion and a major solar push aimed at powering industrial activity. Trade/Telecom Sovereignty: Mali regained majority control of strategic telecom asset SOTELMA in a $277m deal, a reminder of how regional states are reshaping ownership of key infrastructure. Public Health & Cost Pressures: The UN HIV/AIDS declaration vote saw Niger among “no” countries, and broader coverage highlights worsening hunger and insecurity debates across the region.