Anti-LGBTQ+ Push: West Africa is tightening laws against LGBTQ+ people, with Niger criminalising same-sex relations and other neighbours following suit, raising fears of political scapegoating. Security in Niger: Boko Haram attacks near N’Guigmi in Diffa reportedly killed about 10 Nigerien soldiers as forces sweep the area. Wider Extremist Threat: Separate reports say suspected Islamic State fighters overran two Niger military positions, with dozens of soldiers killed. Kidnapping Crackdown (Niger State): Police in Niger State rescued nine kidnap victims, including a baby, and arrested 71 suspects, recovering rifles, fake IDs, drugs and cash. Human Trafficking: NAPTIP says 22 Nigerian teenagers were rescued in Niger Republic en route to Libya. Humanitarian Strain: Drought, conflict and displacement are worsening malnutrition risks in Niger’s Maradi and across the Lake Chad basin, where hundreds of thousands of refugees are fleeing violence. Health Coverage: Niger State launched free health insurance enrolment for nursing mothers and babies. Defence Imports: Niger reportedly received six Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones to boost surveillance and precision strikes. Regional Insecurity Talks: ECOWAS leaders met in Abuja with Niger’s president to coordinate responses to terrorism and armed conflict. Economy/Industry: NNPC pitched investment opportunities around the AKK gas pipeline in Minna, with Niger State promoting an industrial park along the corridor.