Mali-Sahel Diplomacy: The US, Russia and the African Union are all courting Mali’s military junta as insecurity worsens, with Russia’s Africa Corps and jihadist advances putting Bamako under pressure. Niger Security: One person was killed and three houses burnt in a boundary dispute in Niger State’s Agaie LGA, while in Mariga LGA police and vigilantes rescued 11 kidnap victims after a gun battle. Arms Crackdown (Kaduna-Niger link): Nigerian troops arrested four suspected arms suppliers in Kaduna and recovered seven weapons, with investigators tracing routes tied to Niger State. Niger Politics (2027): Niger State Governor Umaru Bago retained Deputy Yakubu Garba as his running mate for 2027, urging peace amid calls for greater religious equity. Customs Revenue Shock: Nigeria’s Senate is probing ₦34tn import duty waivers after Customs said IDEC approvals hit ₦34tn in 2025, with about 60% linked to military hardware. AU Engagement: AU Commission chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf arrived in Burkina Faso for talks on strengthening AU solidarity and counter-terror cooperation. Sports (WAFU B U-20): Coach Abdu Maikaba warned Nigeria’s Flying Eagles that discipline and hard work—not past glory—will decide WAFU B success and AFCON qualification.