Kidnapping Fallout in Nigeria: A Nigerian cardinal, John Onaiyekan, criticised the government after the release of 44 schoolchildren and teachers held by jihadists in Oyo State, warning that authorities must not treat the rescue as the end of the problem. Security in Niger State: NSCDC says suspected illegal miners shot dead an officer during an enforcement operation in Korokpa village, Minna, as patrols moved to clamp down on illegal mining. Niger’s Power Push: Niger State stakeholders praised Governor Umaru Bago’s solar-energy initiative, saying it is attracting investors and boosting the state’s internally generated revenue. Sahel Terrorism & US/Mali: Reports say the Trump administration is weighing strikes on JNIM in Mali, a move that could raise tensions with Russian-linked forces. AFCON 2032 Bid: CAF cleared Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to proceed with a joint AFCON 2032 hosting bid, the first formal step in the process. Sports & Infrastructure: Bago also backed plans for a 30,000-capacity international stadium in Niger State, while Niger Tornadoes begin a major squad rebuild ahead of the 2026/27 NPFL season. Local Crime: Niger State police recovered a stolen vehicle in Lapai after arresting suspects in Kano.