Deep Offshore Oil Deal: Nigeria’s President Tinubu signed a 2026 incentives order for deep offshore oil and gas, aiming to unlock up to $50bn in investment and speed up projects like Bonga South West. EV Push vs Power Reality: Nigeria approved tax waivers for nearly 4,000 electric vehicles in H1, but chronic electricity shortages keep EV economics tough. Migration Costs & Politics: South Africa spent R292m repatriating foreign nationals and is seeking reimbursement from Malawi, Nigeria and Ethiopia, as Home Affairs rolls out an Electronic Travel Authorisation system. Elections Under Strain: South Africa’s SABC says it needs about R120m for fair local election coverage, while 27,092 teaching posts remain vacant. Security & Justice: South Africa’s Madlanga Commission begins a new phase probing alleged KZN police hit squads linked to organised crime. Osun Vote Tension: Nigeria’s Osun governorship race heats up amid claims of outdated BVAS and warnings against violence. Zambia Poll Test: Zambia goes to the polls to judge Hichilema’s economic reforms against high living costs. Regional Integration: Ramaphosa’s SADC Vision 2050 keynote spotlights industrialisation, infrastructure and shared prosperity. Mining Tragedy: At least 14 artisanal miners died in a South African illegal mine collapse. Women-Led Governance: India and Liberia discussed women-led development and gender-responsive governance through an IBSA/UN Women peer learning mission.