Niger Coup Attempt: Forces loyal to junta leader Abdourahamane Tiani thwarted a major coup on Aug. 29, with Russia and Algeria stepping in—raising fears of worsening security in the country. Sudan–Neighbors Tensions: Rising friction between Sudan and Rapid Support Forces backers Chad and Ethiopia increases the risk of a wider military confrontation, even as both sides face limits on escalation. DRC Security Push: Pro-Congolese forces launched two offensives in South Kivu against M23 and allied fighters, aiming to retake key positions and squeeze M23’s western flank. Sudan Humanitarian Impact: UN OCHA reports about 22,000 displaced in Sudan’s Blue Nile over the past week, with families sheltering in schools and shortages of water and basics. Khartoum Curfew Lifted: Sudan lifted a two-year curfew and emergency in Khartoum and reopened parts of the airport, but residents still face looting damage and power blackouts. Border/Travel Costs Watch (Nigeria): Nigeria’s presidency spent about ₦37.64 billion on presidential travel (June 2023–April 2026), as Tinubu heads to Europe for another vacation. Cross-Border Trade Under Fire: A drone strike on a weekly market in Western Darfur near the Chadian border reportedly killed civilians, threatening trade and aid routes through Adré.