Digital Public Services: Benin’s Minister of Digital Transformation and Innovation, Mahuna Akplogan, visited Ethiopia’s MESOB one-stop-shop for organized benefits, calling Ethiopia’s digital transformation a “textbook case” and signaling deeper tech cooperation for faster access to services for citizens and businesses. Regional Security: Nigeria’s Defence Minister Gen. Christopher Musa urged ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to form a unified security alliance to curb cross-border insurgency and strengthen Gulf of Guinea maritime security, during a working visit to Cotonou. Oil & Investment Outlook: Nigeria’s NUPRC says 22 major offshore projects are expected to attract $30–$50bn in investment between 2026 and 2030, aiming to boost production, jobs and energy security. Health Policy Debate: Private healthcare providers in Nigeria warn that the proposed National Health Facility Regulatory Agency (NHFRA) could add fees and duplicate regulators, arguing it may burden patients rather than improve care. Education & Exam Integrity: WAEC withheld 167,486 WASSCE results (8.59%) over alleged malpractice, citing phone use despite bans and organized cheating. Edo Politics & Governance: The NDC insisted its Edo South senatorial candidate, Epelle-Asemota Bridgitte Osayuki, remains valid despite an INEC publication mix-up; meanwhile Edo’s deputy governor rewarded UTME top scorer Daniel Osagiobare with N1m. Remittances & Payments: A report highlights Africa’s high remittance costs and points to real-time payment infrastructure like Maplerad as a route to cheaper transfers. Sports-Education Push: Nigeria unveiled the N-SEEP programme to create sports and education centres of excellence in tertiary institutions, linking athletic talent with academic and job skills. Benin Cultural Calendar: Asogli State announced its 2026 Yam Festival programme and a funeral ban from Aug. 17 to Oct. 4.