Benin–Côte d’Ivoire Diplomacy: President Romuald Wadagni met Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, agreeing to deepen trade, infrastructure and energy cooperation and strengthen regional coordination to tackle West Africa’s security and economic pressures. Regional Security & Policy: Nigeria’s Oyo school abductions continue to dominate headlines, with abductors reportedly demanding ₦1bn ransom, two Hilux vehicles, Sharia-related concessions and the release of detained Ansaru commanders—an approach authorities say would only embolden attacks. Tax & Jobs Reality Check: Moody’s warns that nearly 88% of Sub-Saharan Africa’s workforce is informal, shrinking tax capacity and weighing on growth—while noting countries like Benin are among the better performers in reducing informality. Water Safety Risk: A new Environmental Performance Index assessment flags unsafe drinking water as a major public health threat, with many African countries among the lowest-ranked. Tourism & Heritage Investment: In Ouidah, Benin is moving ahead with a Chinese-backed La Marina waterfront project to link the modern coast to the historic slave-route and memorial sites, aiming to boost tourism. Energy Disruptions (Cross-border impact): Nigeria’s TCN scheduled daily power outages in Delta State for maintenance until June 16, affecting businesses and households.