Security & Rescue in Niger State: Nigeria’s IGP Olatunji Disu visited Niger State after worshippers were abducted in Dekara (Borgu LGA), condoling victims’ families and ordering intensified, intelligence-led rescue operations with tighter coordination. Niger Coup Tensions: In Niamey, Reuters reports gunfire and explosions after attacks on the airport and presidential palace; a faction claimed Gen. Tiani is no longer head of state, while fighting around Air Base 101 continued. Sahel Security-Resources Model: Analysts say AES states (Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger) are leaning on Russia’s Africa Corps and trading minerals for protection, deepening cross-border jihadist pressure and complicating regional response. Power Sector Debt: NERC says Niger, Benin and Togo owe Nigeria $11.16m for 2025 electricity/ancillary services, with remittance performance at 84.9%. Industry & Environment: Research highlights a fungus from industrial battery waste that can break down cyanide—an opportunity for safer mining and wastewater treatment. SME Support (Regional): UNDP begins verifying women-led post-rice SMEs under an EWASME project operating across Niger and other West African countries.