Anti-LGBTQ crackdown in Niger: Niger’s military junta has enacted a new penal code criminalising same-sex relations, with penalties of 5–10 years in prison and up to 10–20 years for same-sex marriage or related acts, alongside fines and punishments for running or joining LGBTQ associations. Sahel security and rights squeeze: A wider Sahel pattern is highlighted as juntas tighten laws and restrict speech, while insecurity keeps spreading across borders. Oil and investment push: Niger’s petroleum minister says the country has 44 oil blocks, with 35 open to investors, and targets stable production of 110,000 barrels per day. Regional finance for Niger: NAB Consulting says it has completed a €250m structured finance facility for Niger’s recovery programme, aimed at sectors like agriculture, energy, healthcare and infrastructure. Niger Basin climate implementation: Niger Basin Authority work is being accelerated ahead of programme deadlines, with support from the AfDB, Green Climate Fund, EU and German cooperation. Health warning: The CDC issued a Level 2 travel notice for a major diphtheria outbreak across Niger and six other countries, urging travellers to ensure vaccination is up to date. Education under threat (Nigeria, but regional impact): UNICEF warns insecurity and lack of play in schools are harming children’s learning, citing children taken from schools in Niger and other states.