Niger LGBTQ crackdown: Niger’s military-run government has enacted a new penal code criminalising same-sex relations, with jail terms of 5–10 years (and fines) for consensual intimacy, and 10–20 years for same-sex marriage or running/financing LGBTQ associations—sparking fresh regional alarm about shrinking freedoms. Niger school safety rumours: Niger State officials urged calm after social media claimed bandits invaded schools and abducted pupils; authorities said consultations and security checks found the reports false, and promised tighter protection around learning centres. Nigeria insecurity and children: UNICEF warned that insecurity and reduced play opportunities are harming children’s learning and cognitive development, noting children taken from schools in Borno, Niger, Kebbi and Oyo. Community policing push: In Abuja and Niger State, police and stakeholders stressed that crime can’t be tackled by police alone, calling for stronger community partnership. Democracy Day protests: Civil society and activists declared a June 12 nationwide protest over insecurity and hardship, while Nigeria’s Democracy Day debate continues to split public opinion. Sports youth spotlight: MILO Basketball crowned GSS Gboko (girls) and Father O’Connell Science College (boys) as central conference champions, keeping school sports in focus amid wider security worries.