France–Africa Reset in Nairobi: Macron is in Kenya for the Africa Forward Summit, pitching “investment not loans” and announcing €23bn for energy transition, digital/AI, maritime and agriculture, while also trying to distance Europe from colonial blame and defend its role as China’s influence grows. Sahel Tensions & Media Friction: The summit backdrop is a region still raw from French setbacks and security shocks, including renewed debate over airstrikes and civilian harm claims in Niger State’s Shiroro area—where DHQ denies deaths and says strikes hit bandit enclaves. Human Cost of the Conflict: A Niger State father says three children were killed in a Shiroro airstrike; separate reports also describe deadly clashes and denials across Nigeria’s security front. Regional Security Push: ECOWAS ministers back biometric border surveillance and migration controls, while Nigeria’s security analyst urges deeper Sahel cooperation over relying on distant partners. Local Governance Under Pressure: Kano residents protest the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano–Maradi railway over blocked access roads and unmet promises. Politics & Institutions: ASUU threatens another strike over “distorted” implementation of the 2025 agreement; Nigeria’s Fiscal Responsibility Commission begins a transparency-focused strategic plan retreat. Courtroom Drama: Anti-West activist Kemi Seba tells a South African court he fears death if sent back to Benin.