ECOWAS Gas Deal: West African leaders have formally endorsed the $25bn Nigeria–Morocco Atlantic Gas Pipeline, a 6,000km project meant to move Nigerian gas along the Atlantic coast to Morocco and onward to Europe via Spain, with construction targeted for 2028. Ivorian “National Champions”: Côte d’Ivoire is pushing homegrown “champion” firms to drive its 2030 development plan, spotlighting companies like Petro Ivoire and Kaera as examples of local capacity after years of instability. Digital Connectivity in Abidjan: During a US diplomatic visit, Côte d’Ivoire approved Starlink to provide nationwide satellite internet, aiming to narrow the digital divide in remote areas. Korean Culture in Abidjan: “The King’s Warden” premiered in Ivory Coast as part of a Korean Film Festival marking 65 years of diplomatic ties, with government and diplomatic attendance. Flood Risk and Urban Vulnerability: A new climate-focused report says West African floods were made more intense by human-driven climate change, while rapid city growth into flood-prone zones worsened impacts. Security and Displacement: Coverage highlights deepening West African displacement as insecurity spreads toward the coast, adding pressure on already strained communities. Customs Crackdown: Benin and Nigeria carried out a joint geospatial intelligence-led Customs operation, seizing illicit goods along the border corridor. West Africa’s Jihadist Pressure: Analysts warn Ghana’s relative calm may be narrowing as JNIM expands southward, raising risks for neighbors. Energy Project in Côte d’Ivoire: Wison New Energies signed an EPCIC contract for an Eni FPSO for the Baleine Phase 3 offshore field in Côte d’Ivoire.