AGP Executive Report

ICC Withdrawal in the Sahel: The International Criminal Court confirmed Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have formally started the one-year process to withdraw from the Rome Statute, with Niger leaving on 18 June and the others following on 24 June—moves the ICC says risk weakening the fight against impunity. Border Security Push: Nigeria says it is expanding military cooperation with Benin and Niger by creating a new tri-border sector to stop jihadist infiltration, while also warning illegal mining helps fund armed groups. Niamey Anti-Plastic Crackdown: Niamey is enforcing a tougher plastic carrier-bag ban: by early 2027, existing stocks must be sold off or destroyed, with prison terms and fines for offenders. Niger Communal Violence: In Niger State’s Rafi area, police confirm 18 deaths in a land-dispute clash between Fulani and Kamuku communities, including victims burnt alive, as patrols and a reconciliation committee move in. Sports in Niger: Niger Tornadoes announce 6 July as the resumption date for the 2026/27 NPFL season, while the state begins renovating Bako Kontagora Stadium ahead of kickoff.

ICC Exit in the Sahel: Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have officially started the year-long legal process to withdraw from the International Criminal Court, with the ICC warning the move could weaken efforts to end impunity. Niamey Anti-Plastic Push: Niamey is cracking down on plastic carrier bags, giving supermarkets six months to clear stocks and banning production, import, sale and use, with prison terms and fines for offenders. Niger Security and Justice: Niger State is still reeling from deadly communal clashes tied to land disputes, with police reporting 18 deaths in Rafi LGA after reprisal attacks and arson. Child Protection in Niger: Niger’s child rights agency says cases of child exploitation and violations are rising, citing daily reports of abuse and limited field capacity due to lack of vehicles. ECOWAS Economic Shift: Nigeria’s Tinubu urged ECOWAS to become a production-driven bloc, pushing industrialisation and intra-regional trade over consumption of imports. Regional Security Cooperation: Nigeria says it’s expanding military coordination with Benin and Niger via a tri-border sector to counter Sahel-linked jihadist infiltration. Tackling Terrorism in Nigeria: Nigeria’s federal government says it secured 1,721 terrorism convictions under its mass trial programme since 2017.

LGBTQ Crackdown in Niger: Niger has arrested at least 16 people under its new anti-LGBTQ penal code, with reports of a “witch-hunt” and HIV services disrupted as people go into hiding. ICC Withdrawal Process: The ICC says Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have started a year-long process to withdraw from the Rome Statute, a move rights groups warn will deepen impunity. Niger Security Push: Niger’s forces say they “neutralized” 41 mercenaries and captured two after an attempted attack in Torodi, Tillaberi, seizing weapons and radios. Communal Violence in Niger State: In Nigeria’s Niger State, clashes tied to a long-running land dispute in Rafi have killed at least 18, with reports of arson and more deaths feared. Terrorism Trials Update (Nigeria): Nigeria’s ONSA says its Mass Trial Programme has secured 1,721 terrorism convictions since 2017. Education Under Strain: FUT Minna says it tightened security and expanded hostels after student protests over attacks near the campus. Regional Diplomacy: UN says it will close its human rights office in Burkina Faso amid restrictions.

Defence & Security: Niger’s Defence and Security Forces say they “neutralized” 41 mercenaries and captured two in an attempted attack in Torodi, Tillaberi, seizing heavy weapons, rifles, ammo and radios. Counterterrorism: Troops also foiled an attack on Nigeria’s NIPSS in Kuru, Plateau, recovering a rifle linked to an earlier clash. Local Violence in Niger State: Police confirm 18 deaths in Rafi LGA after a land dispute spiralled into shootings and a house fire that killed 15 people. Arrests & Rights: Niger reports a “witch-hunt” under its new penal code, with up to 40 arrests tied to same-sex relations, while HIV services warn people are going into hiding. Security Reporting: Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters launched toll-free emergency line 193 and says Q2 operations killed 662 terrorists/criminals and rescued 951 kidnapped civilians. Kidnapping Ransom: Bandits holding Niger NSIEC commissioner Ahmed Mohammed demand an extra N300m after a reported N40m ransom payment. Justice & Governance: Kano begins a Police Duty Solicitor Scheme to give suspects early legal access and reduce detention.

Fulani–Kamuku Violence: At least 10 villagers were killed and several houses burnt in a communal clash in Rafi LGA, Niger State, with women and children hit hardest; local authorities say investigations are underway and security has been deployed. Bandit Movement Alert: After the clash, suspected bandits were reportedly seen moving toward Kotonkoro via the Mailaka axis in Mariga LGA, with residents urged to stay vigilant. LGBTQ Crackdown in Niger: Niger has arrested at least 16 people after introducing prison terms and fines for same-sex sexual acts, targeting alleged locations including barracks and campuses. Justice at the ICC: The ICC expressed concern over Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger withdrawing, warning it could weaken the fight against impunity. Financial Sector Clampdown: Nigeria’s NDIC says it has been appointed liquidator for 46 revoked microfinance banks and warns the public not to transact with them. Security Hotline: Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters launched toll-free line 193 for security tips, saying troops neutralised 662 terrorists and criminals in Q2 2026. Youth Clash in Niger State: In Minna, rival youth groups clashed; one person died and two were injured after police intervention, with accounts differing on who fired first. UNICEF Planning: UNICEF began consultations in Kaduna to set priorities for its 2028–2032 country programme, covering Kaduna, Niger, Nasarawa and Kwara.

APC Candidate Shake-Up: Nigeria’s ruling APC says it has dropped former Benue governor Gabriel Suswam, Gbenga Elegbeleye and other National Assembly candidates, replacing 26 aspirants after its primary appeal process, with changes affecting senatorial and House seats across states including Niger, and forwarded to INEC. Campus Security Protests: Students at the Federal University of Technology, Minna blocked gates and disrupted tests over alleged off-campus robberies and killings, demanding action as management says it’s working with police and vigilantes. Niger Crackdown on LGBTQ+ People: Reports say Niger’s new penal code is driving arrests and detentions of dozens of people, with HIV services for men who have sex with men reportedly halted amid fears and a “toxic” climate. Court Date in PDP Leadership Fight: A Federal High Court in Abuja set July 7 to hear the PDP BoT suit seeking INEC recognition of an interim leadership, with parties ordered to file by July 6. Niger ICC Withdrawal: Niger’s junta has begun the process to withdraw from the International Criminal Court, accusing it of “selective justice.” Flood Risk Alert: NEMA warns five Kwara LGAs face high flood risk this rainy season.

School Kidnapping in Borno: Gunmen raided Lassa Day Secondary School in Askira-Uba, Borno, abducting 25 girls and 11 boys plus three teachers; at least one teacher was killed and authorities say rescue efforts are ongoing. Niger Quits ICC: Niger has begun the process to withdraw from the International Criminal Court, accusing it of “selective justice,” with withdrawal set to take effect after a year. Sahel Security Spillover: An airstrike near Mali’s border with Niger killed eight civilians on their way to a weekly fair, as jihadist activity and allied operations intensify. Niger State Liquor Fraud Warning: The Niger State Liquor Licensing Board says forged receipts circulating in the state are fake and blames “saboteurs,” pointing to reforms and dedicated payment accounts. Court Date in Nigeria’s PDP Crisis: A Federal High Court in Abuja set July 7 for the PDP–INEC leadership dispute hearing, after ordering parties to file processes by July 6. FEC Approves Major Financing: Nigeria’s FEC cleared $2.96bn, €200m and ₦215bn for transport, agriculture, power and MSMEs, including $160m rural solar support for Niger State. Sports Update (Niger Tornadoes): Niger Tornadoes’ new chairman, Dr. Abubakar Kuso, was sworn in with a target of a top-three NPFL finish; meanwhile, forwards Godstime Joseph and Shimagande Terdoo have signed two-year deals with Benin’s Bendel Insurance.

Child Protection in Focus: Niger State police officer and two suspects were arrested over the alleged rape of a 13-year-old girl, with officials saying the case was pushed after repeated attempts to seek justice were blocked and warning that bail practices can embolden perpetrators. Security Update: The Nigerian military carried out an intelligence-led airstrike on a bandits’ enclave at Dogon Dawa on the Niger–Kaduna–Zamfara border, reportedly disrupting plans and striking a gathering where hundreds of motorcycles were assembled. Fuel Price Pressure: Nigeria’s Finance Minister said the government is pushing marketers to reflect falling crude prices in pump prices, noting companies often cut slowly because of inventory costs, while regulators are already engaging under the Petroleum Industry Act. Economic Boost: Nigeria’s FEC approved financing packages totaling about $2.96bn, €200m and ₦215bn for transport, agriculture, power, infrastructure and MSMEs, including ₦215bn to complete the CNG initiative. Road Safety: A trailer–tanker crash in Agaie, Niger State, killed five and injured eight, blamed on a faulty tanker and an attempted overtake. Health & Data: STRICAAN’s digital immunisation push in Adamawa and Niger enumerated 624,000 households and flagged 90,000 zero-dose children for targeted vaccination.

Fuel Price Pressure: Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele says marketers are slow to cut Premium Motor Spirit prices because they must clear inventories bought at higher costs, while regulators FCCPC and NMDPRA work on alleged exploitation and the FG points to VAT/excise/surcharge suspensions. Economic Boost: FEC approved N215bn for the Presidential CNG initiative plus other billions for transport, agriculture, power, infrastructure and MSMEs under the Renewed Hope agenda. Health & Vaccines: STRICAAN says it mapped 624,000 households and flagged 90,000 zero-dose children in Adamawa and Niger to improve routine immunisation planning. Menstrual Poverty: A health expert warns rising costs are pushing girls to miss school and use unsafe materials, increasing infection risks. Accountability Push: SERAP gave Nigeria’s National Assembly a 7-day ultimatum to investigate alleged diversion of over ₦6.3bn constituency funds. Road Safety: In Niger State, a trailer-tanker crash in Agaie killed 5 and injured 8. Security & Education: Gunmen kidnapped students during exams in Borno; rights groups urge protection for schools.

Road Safety Tragedy: Five people died and eight were critically injured in a trailer–tanker crash in Agaie, Niger State, after the passenger trailer tried to overtake a faulty tanker and lost control; bodies were taken to the Agaie hospital morgue. Child Protection: Niger State Police arrested two suspected child traffickers and ritualists in Suleja, rescuing four children aged 4–7 and transferring the suspects to Minna for investigation. Justice in Niger State: A Minna court sentenced four men to a total of 95 years for gang-raping and impregnating a 13-year-old girl, with video and medical reports cited in court. Anti-Drug Push: Niger’s deputy governor warned that drug abuse is rising and called for more community anti-drug task forces as NDLEA says it seized over 10,000kg of illicit substances in 2025–2026. Accountability Pressure: SERAP urged Nigeria’s Senate President and House Speaker to refer alleged diversion of ₦6.3bn constituency funds to anti-corruption agencies within seven days.

Sexual Violence in Niger State: A Minna court sentenced four men to a combined 95 years in prison for gang-raping a 13-year-old girl in Kontagora, leaving her pregnant, after police and NSCDC tracked the suspects and the case was tried with medical and recorded statements. Terrorism Watch in the Sahel: A video attributed to ISIS claims to show military-grade weapons seized from a Nigerien base in Inates; officials say the footage’s authenticity hasn’t been independently verified, but analysts warn such arms can boost jihadist capabilities across porous borders. Anti-Cybercrime Drive in Kebbi: Kebbi State announced a crackdown on the “Yan Vocal” syndicate, alleging young hackers use fake identities and threats to extort victims via social media, with plans to dismantle the network and prosecute suspects. Accountability Pressure on Nigeria’s National Assembly: SERAP gave Senate President Akpabio and Speaker Abbas seven days to refer alleged diversion of ₦6.3bn constituency funds for investigation or face legal action. Power Disruptions: TCN scheduled grid maintenance that will cause temporary outages in Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Bauchi and Yobe, and also affect Gazaoua in Niger Republic.

Anti-corruption Push: SERAP has urged Nigeria’s National Assembly leadership to refer allegations of diversion or non-accounting of over ₦6.3bn in constituency project funds to anti-corruption agencies, warning of legal action if no response comes within seven days. Sahel Security & Diplomacy: The AES bloc (Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger) held a three-day summit in Ouagadougou to align security, economic integration and diplomatic positions ahead of ECOWAS engagement, as Burkina Faso simultaneously deepened its break with France. Wrongful Detention Case: Nigeria’s DSS ordered the release of Kaduna farmer Nura Idris after an internal review found no basis for Boko Haram links, paying him N3 million and promising support to restart his livestock business. Health System in Niger: Niger’s Governor Umaru Bago inaugurated a 28-member advisory committee to strengthen the state health system, improve collaboration and guide evidence-based policy. Education & Safety: Bandits reportedly burned a primary school in Dekara, Borgu LGA, Niger State, despite residents paying a ₦10m “protection levy.” Power Disruption: TCN scheduled maintenance causing a four-hour outage in parts of Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Bauchi, Yobe and Gazaoua in Niger Republic.

AES Sahel Bloc Coordination: Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger wrapped a June 23–25 summit in Ouagadougou, agreeing to tighten regional security, economic integration and a common diplomatic line as they prepare for future talks with ECOWAS. Diplomacy Shock in the Sahel: Burkina Faso also severed ties with France, with Paris calling the move hostile and unfounded and saying it is weighing reciprocal steps—another blow to Western influence in the region. Niger-ICC Exit: Niger formally began its withdrawal from the International Criminal Court, arguing “selective justice” and neo-colonial bias, adding to the wider African pushback after Mali and Burkina Faso’s exits. Cross-Border Security Pressure: Nigeria’s DSS said it released and compensated a Kaduna herder, Nura Idris, cleared of alleged Boko Haram links, paying N3 million and promising reintegration support. Power Disruptions (Niger Republic Included): Nigeria’s TCN scheduled grid maintenance for Sunday, warning of outages in Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Bauchi, Yobe and Gazaoua in Niger Republic. Local School Burned After Levy: Bandits reportedly burned a primary school in Niger State’s Borgu LGA even after residents paid a ₦10m “protection levy.”

Burkina Faso–France Rift: Burkina Faso severed diplomatic ties with France on June 26, accusing Paris of “neo-colonial ambitions,” interference and backing “subversive networks” and terrorists, while insisting the move targets state-to-state relations, not French people. Niger–ICC Exit: Niger’s formal withdrawal from the International Criminal Court has reignited debate over sovereignty and justice for victims, with legal experts noting the exit takes effect one year after notification and does not erase past obligations. Human Rights Pressure: The UN urged Niger’s authorities to free human rights defender Moussa Tiangari, saying his detention is arbitrary and violates international law. Security & Justice in Niger: Nigerien authorities reported releasing a Kaduna farmer cleared of Boko Haram links after a DSS review, and NDLEA said it seized over 10,000kg of illicit drugs and secured 173 convictions. Health & Energy Access: A new report warns nearly 1 billion people in sub-Saharan Africa may still lack clean cooking fuel by 2027, as population growth outpaces progress. Power Disruptions (Nigeria/Niamey Region): TCN announced planned blackouts affecting parts of Kano and other states, including Gazaoua in Niger Republic, for maintenance and transmission upgrades. Education: NECO released 2026 BECE results for 186,291 candidates and set July 22–23 for resits in key subjects.

ICC Exit and Sahel Sovereignty: Niger’s military government has formally requested to withdraw from the International Criminal Court, joining Mali and Burkina Faso in denouncing “selective justice,” with the move taking effect one year after notification—raising fresh concerns about accountability for alleged abuses. Human Rights Pressure: The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention renewed calls for Niger to release human rights defender Moussa Tiangari, saying his detention is arbitrary. Peacebuilding in Niger: Religious leaders and community groups in Niger backed collective action to build lasting peace, with calls for better coordination and support for displaced communities. Public Safety and Drugs: Niger’s NDLEA says it seized 10,127.84kg of illicit drugs and secured 173 convictions since 2025. Child Trafficking Crackdown: Police in Niger State arrested two women over alleged child trafficking and rescued four children. Flood Preparedness: Niger’s NEMA convened stakeholders to assess readiness for the 2026 flood season and improve emergency response coordination.

Niger–Security: Bandits in Nigeria’s Niger State allegedly collected a ₦10m levy from Dekara communities, then burned the Central Primary School anyway, while separate attacks in Shiroro reportedly killed one person and abducted another. Niger–Politics & Rights: HURIWA sharply criticized a top government spokesman for dismissing Nigeria’s hunger complaints, saying “Nigerians cannot eat roads.” Niger–Education: Nigeria’s NECO released the 2026 BECE results for 186,291 candidates and set July 22–23 for resits in Mathematics and English. Niger–Energy & Jobs: Nigeria and Niger State trained 100 youths, women and agripreneurs on hydroponic farming to boost livelihoods. Regional Security: Chad arrested Muslim Mohammed Yusuf, son of Boko Haram’s founder, alongside alleged jihadists, a major blow to Lake Chad extremist networks. Sahel–Diplomacy: ECOWAS reconciliation talks resurfaced as Sanusi urged Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso to return, warning the region’s security and integration suffer when they stay out.