AGP Executive Report

Sahel Security & Education Under Fire: Niger State’s Borgu communities are reeling after terrorists burnt down five primary schools in Dekara, forcing closures and deepening the education crisis as residents say they can’t even reach their farms. Local Peace Efforts: Niger State Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba arrived in Kagara to help calm a deadly Fulani–Kamuku land dispute in Rafi LGA after clashes reportedly killed dozens and sparked reprisals. Community Violence Escalates: A fresh wave of armed raids and arson in Niger State’s Rafi border communities left at least four dead and homes razed, tied to a long-running territorial feud. Regional Lifestyle & Culture: Nigeria’s First Lady praised the Northern Derby in Zaria for preserving cultural heritage through horse racing, drawing riders and spectators from across the Sahel, including Niger. Youth & Livelihoods: Niger State reports over 3,000 cooperative societies empowering members with affordable loans and support for farming and small business. Regional Governance Watch: GIABA launched its 2025 annual report in Senegal, urging ECOWAS states to keep strengthening anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing as cybercrime and illicit flows threaten stability.

Roads & Security: Works Minister David Umahi says Tinubu’s highway rehabilitation is meant to curb insecurity and strengthen military operations, pointing to Borno corridors like Bama–Banki and Dikwa–Gamboru–Ngala. Education Under Fire (Niger): In Borgu, Niger State, terrorists burnt five primary schools in Dekara, forcing closures and deepening a crisis that began with a 2021 attack and anti-“Western education” warnings. Community Pressure (Borgu): Borgu youth leaders warn the kingdom could be “totally extinct” if insecurity and neglect continue, citing destroyed livelihoods, disrupted healthcare, and abandoned infrastructure. Humanitarian Alarm (Lake Chad Basin): UNHCR warns the Lake Chad crisis is nearing a tipping point, with millions displaced and violence driving soaring needs across Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon. Culture & Sport: First Lady Oluremi Tinubu praised the Northern Derby for preserving equestrian heritage, while MILO basketball finals crowned first-time national champions in Rivers and Benue. Co-ops & Livelihoods (Niger): Niger State reports 3,000 cooperative societies empowering members with loans and support for farming and small business.

STEM & Youth Talent: InterswitchSPAK Season 8 has produced the top 81 students from 21,700+ entries nationwide, with televised assessments set for late 2026 and scholarships/prizes worth over ₦40 million. Cultural Heritage & Sports: First Lady Oluremi Tinubu praised the Northern Derby in Zaria for preserving traditional horsemanship and bringing Sahel communities together through horse racing. Insecurity & Education in Borgu: A Borgu school principal says terrorists warned communities to shut down “Western education,” closing schools since 2021 and burning primary schools again last month—calling for security to reopen learning. Security Operations Update: Nigeria’s military says it carried out 14,221 operations in the first half of 2026, eliminating 1,597 criminals and rescuing 1,516 hostages. Lake Chad Humanitarian Crisis: UNHCR warns the basin is nearing a tipping point, with 3.5M displaced and 8.2M needing aid as violence surged and schools remain disrupted. Politics & Inclusion in Niger State: APC chieftain Jonathan Vatsa urges Governor Mohammed Bago to pick a Christian running mate for 2027, alleging Christians are marginalized in candidate selection and appointments. Rural Reality Check: A new global map shows Niger is among the most majority-rural countries worldwide, with 82.77% living in rural areas.

School Kidnapping Update: Nigeria’s Army Chief, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, says troops are making “tremendous progress” in the rescue of 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted in Oyo State, adding that the victims are expected to reunite with their families soon. Humanitarian Crisis in the Sahel: UNHCR warns the Lake Chad Basin is nearing a dangerous tipping point, with 3.5 million people forcibly displaced and 8.2 million needing aid as violence surges—nearly 1,800 security incidents and 5,700+ deaths recorded between Sept. 2025 and May 2026. Roads for Recovery: Nigeria flags off rehabilitation of Borno’s Bama-Banki and Dikwa-Gamboru-Ngala roads, calling them key trade and security corridors to restart farming, movement, and post-insurgency recovery. Community Safety & Culture: In Niger State, police confirm 18 deaths in a Fulani-Kamuku communal clash, including victims burnt in a house, while reconciliation efforts and patrols move in. Politics & Inclusion: A Niger APC chieftain urges Governor Mohammed Bago to pick a Christian deputy for 2027, citing claims of Christian marginalisation in candidate selection and appointments.

Lake Chad Humanitarian Alarm: UNHCR says the Lake Chad Basin is nearing a “tipping point,” with nearly 1,800 security incidents and over 5,700 deaths in nine months, while 3.5 million people are forcibly displaced and 8.2 million need aid—Borno is described as the epicentre. Roads for Recovery: Nigeria’s Federal Government flags off rehabilitation of Borno’s Bama-Banki and Dikwa-Gamboru-Ngala roads, calling them “trade corridors” that can reconnect farmers, schools, clinics and security access. Niger State Communal Violence: Police confirm 18 deaths in Rafi LGA clashes between farmers and herders, including 15 burnt alive, with patrols and a reconciliation committee deployed. Child Protection in Niger: Niger’s Child Rights Protection Agency warns of rising child exploitation, citing sexual abuse, child labour and custody disputes, and points to vehicle shortages limiting outreach. Politics & Religion in Niger: APC chieftain Jonathan Vatsa urges Governor Mohammed Bago to pick a Christian deputy for 2027, alleging Christians are marginalized in primaries and appointments. Education Spotlight (Region): Kano tops ECOWAS education spending rankings in a University of Paris index, highlighting budget execution and transparency. LGBTQ+ Rights Under Pressure: Reports say Niger is arresting people under new anti-LGBTQ+ measures, with activists calling it a “witch-hunt.”

Hidden Hunger: A new report warns that across Africa millions of children eat enough to avoid famine but still suffer “hidden hunger” from missing vitamins and minerals, hurting learning, productivity, and long-term health. Lake Chad Crisis: UNHCR says insecurity in the Lake Chad Basin is worsening fast, with nearly 1,800 attacks killing over 5,700 people in nine months, driving displacement across Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon. Education Spotlight (Kano): Kano State tops an ECOWAS education spending ranking, credited to sustained budget allocations after declaring an education emergency. Niger Child Protection: Niger’s Child Rights Protection Agency flags rising child exploitation, including sexual abuse and child labour, but says limited vehicles hamper field work. Niger Communal Violence: Police confirm 18 deaths in Rafi LGA after clashes between farmers and herders, with 15 reportedly burnt alive. Anti-LGBTQ Crackdown (Niger): Niger reports arrests of at least 16 people under a new law criminalising same-sex relations, including officials and civilians. Security & Justice (Nigeria): Nigeria says it secured 1,721 terrorism convictions through a mass trial programme, while rights groups continue to push for detainees to be tried or released. Digital Inclusion (UK-Nigeria): The UK expands digital partnership with support for state-level reforms, including in Niger State, to improve connectivity and digital governance.

Education & Governance: Kano tops ECOWAS’ 2026 sub-national education spending ranking, scoring 87.21 after a state education emergency pushed higher budgets, school projects, and teacher recruitment. Community Safety & Violence: Niger State police confirm 18 deaths in a Fulani–Kamuku clash in Rafi LGA, with 15 reportedly burnt alive in Anguwan-Baago; patrols and a reconciliation committee are working to restore calm. Child Protection: Niger Child Rights Protection Agency warns of rising child exploitation, including rape, child labour, and custody disputes, but says limited vehicles are slowing outreach across the 25 LGAs. LGBTQ Crackdown: Niger reports arrests of at least 16 people under its new anti-LGBTQ law, with HIV services for affected communities reportedly disrupted. US–Nigeria Security: The US says most Lake Chad Basin troops have withdrawn, while intelligence sharing and cooperation continue. Education Access: UCA praises Nigeria’s compliance with Niger Republic’s approved higher-education list, urging graduates not to spread misinformation about unlisted schools. Culture & Youth Sports: ABA plans a three-day referees’ clinic in Abuja ahead of its maiden national basketball championship.

Child Protection Under Pressure: Niger Child Rights Protection Agency says child exploitation cases are rising, with daily reports of sexual abuse, child labour and custody disputes—yet field work is slowed by lack of vehicles. Safe Schools Reality Check: A NAN survey finds Safe School Initiative progress in Kogi, but Niger still struggles with security infrastructure and fencing, while Anambra/Ebonyi/Enugu cite funding gaps. LGBTQ+ Crackdown: Niger has arrested at least 16 people under a new penal code criminalising same-sex relations, with reports of arrests in military barracks and universities and HIV services reportedly disrupted. Communal Violence in Niger State: Police confirm 18 deaths in Rafi LGA clashes between farmers and herders, including 15 burnt alive, linked to a long-running land dispute; residents fear higher tolls. Flood Risk and Loss: In Mokwa, a 13-year-old drowned after floodwaters were blocked by culvert work—another warning as rainy-season threats loom. Culture & Faith: Muharram/Ashura rituals across Africa are described as living social memory, including in Nigeria and Niger where gatherings also discuss justice and dignity. Digital Growth: UK expands its digital partnership with Nigeria, including support for digital reforms in Niger State under a new programme.

Fake Agency Scandal: Nigeria’s Presidency is facing fresh legal heat after Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi was charged over a fictitious “Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council,” forged appointment claims, and alleged use of 34 bank accounts—while human rights lawyer Femi Falana says the Presidency can’t exonerate anyone and calls for an independent probe. Anti-LGBTQ Crackdown in Niger: Niger has arrested at least 16 people under its new penal code criminalising same-sex relations, with reports of a “witch-hunt,” HIV services shutting down, and people going into hiding. Safe Campus Response in Niger: FUT Minna tightened security and expanded hostels after students protested recurring attacks around the Gidan Kwano area, stressing the campus itself is secure. Communal Violence in Niger State: Land-dispute clashes in Rafi LGA left at least 18 dead, with reports of people burnt to death, as herders and farmers trade reprisals. Women & Children Policy Push: Nigeria’s federal government is harmonising state memoranda for the 26th national council on women affairs, focusing on gender mainstreaming, child rights, reproductive health, and protection of vulnerable groups. Terror Justice Drive: ONSA says Nigeria secured 1,721 terrorism convictions through its mass trial programme since 2017.

Jigawa Investment Push: Governor Umar Namadi opened J-INVEST 2026 with a ₦902bn, project-first budget, urging investors to move from promises to jobs in agriculture, manufacturing, renewables, healthcare and infrastructure. Business Climate Talk: Vice President Kashim Shettima backed Tinubu’s reforms, saying PEBEC and the Business Facilitation Act are cutting registration delays and costs to make Nigeria easier to do business. MAAUN Niger Breakthrough: Maryam Abacha American University of Niger (MAAUN Niger) topped Niger’s ranking in the 2026 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, boosting the country’s higher-education profile. Niger’s Anti-LGBTQ Crackdown: Niger arrested at least 16 people (up to 40 reported) under a new penal code criminalising same-sex relations, with HIV services warning of a “witch-hunt” forcing people into hiding. Communal Violence in Niger State: Fresh clashes in Rafi LGA left multiple deaths and burnt homes, including a deadly land-dispute cycle between Fulani and Kamuku communities. Insecurity and Schools: Reports highlight the human cost of insecurity, including mass school kidnappings in Nigeria’s northeast and wider fear affecting learning and daily life. Culture in Muharram: Across Africa, Muharram/Ashura rituals are described as living social memory—blending religion with everyday community life in places like Nigeria and Niger. Film for Home Viewing: Indie drama “Stationed at Home” expands international digital rental and purchase availability from July 2, 2026.

Communal Violence in Niger State: In Rafi LGA, Niger State, at least 10 villagers were killed and homes burnt in a renewed Fulani–Kamuku clash in Mararaban Gwadaro and Tashan Bako, with women and children among the worst hit; local authorities say investigations are underway and security has been deployed. LGBTQ+ Crackdown in Niger: Niger’s military government has arrested at least 16 people after introducing prison and fine penalties for same-sex sexual acts, with Reuters reporting arrests of officials and civilians and targeting of places where people live together. Children’s Rights & Protection: UNICEF has begun consultations to shape its 2028–2032 programme, including Niger State, focusing on evidence-based priorities for children’s welfare. Public Health & Safety: Niger’s HIV support workers warn of a “witch-hunt” climate after anti-gay penal code enforcement, saying LGBTQ+ people are going into hiding and services are disrupted. Education Under Pressure: A Reuters factbox highlights how mass school kidnappings have repeatedly struck Nigeria, including a recent Niger State case where hundreds were abducted. Climate & Daily Life: The federal government urges Nigerians to prepare for flooding as climate change is shifting rainfall patterns toward heavier downpours that overwhelm drainage and displace communities.

LGBTQ+ Rights Under Pressure: Niger’s new penal code is fueling a “witch-hunt,” with dozens arrested and some HIV services reportedly forced to stop as people go into hiding. Campus Safety: Students at FUT Minna protested after repeated robbery attacks, blocking the gate and demanding stronger security for off-campus housing. Child Protection Crisis: Niger State Women Affairs confirmed a police officer and two accomplices arrested over alleged rape of a 13-year-old, with claims that justice attempts were obstructed and the victim was blamed for livestock theft. Women’s Security & Advocacy: Church of Nigeria Mothers Union leaders urged President Tinubu and Anambra’s governor to speed up action on insecurity and the release of kidnapped students and teachers. Health & Community Care: Smile Train launched a Smile Train Africa Alumni Network, bringing cleft-care specialists from across West Africa including Niger to strengthen locally-led treatment. Education & Sports: Niger East Senator Sani Musa highlighted community projects, including a mini-sports complex in Paikoro, while Niger’s ASUU Abuja Zone warned of worsening university funding and unpaid agreements in Niger and Nasarawa. Public Health Data: STRICAAN’s digital immunisation push in Niger and Adamawa enumerated 624,000 households and flagged 90,000 zero-dose children for targeted vaccination. Culture & Belonging: A new Pride-linked mural theme of liberty and inclusion is gaining attention across the region.

School Safety & Insecurity: Gunmen in Nigeria’s Borno stormed a secondary school during exams, kidnapping students; security forces rescued 10 and reported deaths among responders, renewing calls for schools to be protected. Security Strategy: Sokoto Governor Ahmed Aliyu is pushing a tougher approach against terrorism by targeting not just fighters but also “local collaborators” that provide intelligence and support. Child Protection & Abuse: In Niger State, a police officer and two suspects were arrested over the alleged rape of a 13-year-old girl, with officials warning that bail practices and distractions can block justice. Women’s Rights & Empowerment: International Widows’ Day in Abuja highlighted skills training and the push for widows’ economic independence, with organisers linking dignity to real livelihood support. Health & Education Access: Digital tools under STRICAAN mapped 624,000 households and flagged 90,000 zero-dose children in Niger and Adamawa to improve routine immunisation planning. Sports for Youth: Nigeria’s National Institute for Sports announced an eight-week summer coaching programme in Uyo to strengthen grassroots coaching. Disaster Preparedness: NEMA warned five Kwara LGAs—Edu, Baruten, Kaiama, Moro and Patigi—face high flood risk in 2026, urging better readiness. Menstrual Health: A gender expert raised alarm over menstrual poverty in Niger, saying lack of pads and hygiene facilities drives school absenteeism and infection risk.

Child Protection & Justice: Niger State Police arrested a police officer and two others over the alleged repeated rape of a 13-year-old girl, after her parents reported that attempts to get justice were blocked; officials also warned against diverting blame onto victims and criticised early bail practices. Gender-Based Violence & Community Response: Nigeria’s GBV gains were linked to traditional, religious and community leaders, as stakeholders cited declines in sexual violence, physical violence, intimate partner violence and female genital mutilation, while pushing new action against technology-facilitated abuse. Health & Women’s Dignity: Experts raised alarm over menstrual poverty in Nigeria, saying rising costs and weak hygiene access push girls to miss school and use unsafe materials, increasing infection risk. Immunisation & Data-Driven Care: STRICAAN digital tools in Adamawa and Niger enumerated 624,000 households and flagged 90,000 zero-dose children to improve routine vaccine delivery. Security & Migration: Ghana’s Aflao immigration intercepted 1,005 irregular migrants from Nigeria and Niger, including women and children trafficked through false job promises. Culture & Peacebuilding: Niger’s Etsu Nupe urged prayers for lasting peace and unity during Nupe Day, calling for collaboration among traditional, religious and security leaders. Online Safety: Kebbi launched a crackdown on the “Yan Vocal” cybercrime syndicate accused of hacking, fake identities and blackmail. Education Under Threat: Gunmen kidnapped students during exams in Nigeria’s conflict-battered Borno, with rights groups stressing schools must be safe. Regional Politics: EU Parliament misinformation claims against Burkina Faso were rejected by SaS-CaN, as Burkina Faso severed ties with France over alleged “neocolonial ambitions.”

School Safety & Kidnapping: Police say gunmen stormed Lassa Day Secondary School in Borno during exams, kidnapping students; Amnesty reports deaths of two teachers and a student, while about 10 victims were rescued. University Welfare Crisis: ASUU Abuja Zone warns of an imminent crisis at IBBU Lapai and NSUK Keffi over unpaid salaries and unimplemented 2025 FG/ASUU agreements, including a promised 40% salary increment. Menstrual Poverty: A gender expert in Niger State flags rising menstrual poverty, saying many girls lack affordable pads and safe hygiene, leading to infections, stigma, and missed school days. Immunisation Push: STRICAAN’s digital health work enumerated 624,000 households and flagged 90,000 zero-dose children in Adamawa and Niger to improve routine vaccine delivery. Anti-Corruption Pressure: SERAP urges Nigeria’s National Assembly leadership to refer alleged diversion of ₦6.3bn constituency funds to anti-graft agencies, demanding contractor disclosures and possible prosecutions. Child Trafficking Crackdown (Niger): Niger State police arrested suspected traffickers/ritualists in Suleja and rescued four children aged 4–7. Community Security & Culture: Etsu Nupe calls for prayers and unity for lasting peace and development across Niger State. Cybercrime Crackdown (Kebbi): Kebbi vows to dismantle “Yan Vocal,” accused of hacking and blackmailing victims via social media. Education Disruption (Ogun): Ogun says Ijebu-Ode school closures will end after safety reviews, attributing gas emissions to natural underground geological activity.

Anti-Corruption Push: SERAP has urged Nigeria’s Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to urgently refer allegations of ₦6.3bn constituency project fund diversion, misapplication, or missing records to anti-corruption agencies, demanding contractor and beneficial owner disclosures and possible prosecution. Mining & Insecurity Link: A new investigative report claims mineral cartels and illegal mining are fueling insecurity in Nigeria’s resource-rich states, costing the economy about $9bn yearly and worsening food inflation. Child Trafficking Crackdown in Niger: Niger State Police say they arrested two suspected child traffickers/ritualists and rescued four children aged 4–7 in Suleja, with investigations pointing to false adoption claims. Security & Policing Debate: Police leadership denies plans to recruit repentant terrorists, warning communities not to sign recommendation letters for people with criminal backgrounds. Education & Safety: Ogun State says schools in Ijebu-Ode will reopen after reviews of recurring gas emissions, attributing them to natural underground geological activity, not myths. Cybercrime Crackdown (Kebbi): Kebbi vows to dismantle the “Yan Vocal” cybercrime syndicate accused of hacking and extortion. Culture & Peace (Niger): Etsu Nupe urges Nigerians to intensify prayers for lasting peace, unity, and development.