Security Update: Reuters reports that more than 50 Nigerien security personnel were killed in two attacks in western Niger, with Islamic State Sahel Province claiming responsibility, underscoring mounting pressure on frontline forces. Mining Tragedy: The fallout from the death of 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody in Minna continues, with a federal independent committee led by DSS retiree Jonathan Kure saying a medical team has started work and justice will be done. Justice & Accountability: Separate reports add to the custody and violence concerns, including allegations of a security man raping an 11-year-old girl to death in Niger State and dumping her body in a church well. Regional Cooperation: The Niger Basin Authority called for stronger regional hydrodiplomacy and investment in water, agriculture and infrastructure across the Niger and Lake Chad basins to tackle shared insecurity and environmental stress. Public Services: Niger State launched five online tax payment channels to let residents pay directly without intermediaries. Politics: APC national chairman Nentawe Yilwatda urged support for Tinubu/Shettima in 2027 and warned that any return of fuel subsidy would cripple Northern Nigeria. AES Currency Debate: Burkina Faso’s Ibrahim Traoré avoided setting a timeline for an AES shared currency, urging caution as online claims circulate.