Mining Accountability: Niger State and the federal government moved to support families after 37 suspected illegal miners died in NSCDC custody in Minna, with VP Kashim Shettima announcing ₦250m and demanding answers, while Governor Umar Bago also paid N5m cheques to families (and N2m to survivors) as investigations continue. Energy & Fuel Security: Niger’s fuel system faces a serious strain as SONIDEP’s debt to the Zinder refinery (SORAZ) reportedly hit 418 billion FCFA, raising fears of supply instability. Water & Public Health: Niger’s water utility NDE is under fire after an audit flagged unsafe drinking water risks, including heavy bacterial contamination, pipeline leaks, and procurement/management failures. Sahel Trade Corridors: The Port of Lomé is pushing deeper into the Sahel, launching a business tour to Niamey, Ouagadougou and Bamako to strengthen Niger–Burkina–Mali logistics links. Uranium Politics & Industry: Niger’s post-Orano uranium pivot is again questioned as public debate grows over whether Niamey is truly securing better terms, amid falling output and opaque negotiations. Regional Media Push: Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger launched Tafouk TV to promote their own narrative and counter Western coverage, backed by Russia. Agribusiness Trade Watch: India is investigating a surge in soybeans declared as originating in Niger, suspecting mislabeling from Nigeria to dodge tariffs.