Sahel Security Shock: Gunfire and explosions near Niamey’s Diori Hamani airport reportedly involved Africa Corps-linked Russian personnel trying to negotiate an urgent exit with Nigerien soldiers, raising fresh questions about foreign security partners during internal crises. Lake Chad & Conflict: A new look at Lake Chad’s environmental decline shows how shrinking and shifting water affects fishing, farming and grazing—fueling competition that can spill into conflict across the basin. Toxic Cleanup Breakthrough: Scientists report a fungus found in battery waste that can break down cyanide in water with very high efficiency, pointing to a low-cost tool for polluted industrial sites. Flood Risk Watch (Nigeria): Nigeria’s flood early warning flags 915 communities across 19 states and the FCT as facing critical risk in the next two weeks, citing heavy rain, runoff and rising river levels. Power & Climate Resilience (Niger–Nigeria line): Severe weather collapsed three towers on the 132kV Birnin Kebbi–Niamey transmission line, triggering a force majeure and disrupting electricity flow. Cross-border Trade (Niger–Nigeria): Nigeria’s Kebbi Customs met Nigerien customs to boost legitimate trade along the Kamba–Tungan Gyado corridor despite insecurity and regional disruptions. Solar Push (West Africa): New analysis says Africa is on track for record solar installations in 2026, with solar mini-grids highlighted as key for climate adaptation and rural electrification in places including Niger.