AGP Executive Report

Benin Inauguration Diplomacy: Nigeria’s VP Kashim Shettima has left Abuja for Cotonou to represent President Tinubu at Romuald Wadagni’s swearing-in on Sunday, with the ceremony set to run from the Presidential Palace in Cotonou to Porto-Novo for the oath-taking of Wadagni and his running mate Mariam Chabi Talata. Edo APC Politics: Tinubu’s APC presidential primary in Edo delivered a landslide—131,096 votes for Tinubu against just one for Stanley Osifo—while Edo lawmakers and party figures framed it as a key step toward 2027. Maritime Push: Nigeria approved certification and compliance steps for five deep seaport projects aimed at reclaiming cargo traffic now lost to Ghana, Togo and Benin. Public Health Alert: Nigeria’s immigration service says Ebola fears are overstated, insisting borders are manned and monitored with digital surveillance. Business & Tech: ForteBet says it’s expanding in Nigeria with a pitch for transparency and technology-led customer experience.

Benin Leadership Handover: Outgoing President Patrice Talon says Benin’s next chapter under President-elect Romuald Wadagni will push the country toward “great nation” status as the swearing-in is set for Sunday in Cotonou/Porto-Novo. Edo APC Momentum: Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo praises a big turnout at the APC presidential primaries, calling it a sign Edo will deliver for Tinubu in 2027. Health Sector Tension: DELSUTH medical consultants in Delta State threaten an indefinite strike after unmet demands, following a one-week warning action. Student Win: A Beninese student takes first prize at the national Chinese Bridge competition, earning a shot at the global final. Regional Security & Trade: Nigeria pushes deeper ECOWAS cross-border cooperation to tackle terror and border crimes, while Nigeria also moves to certify five deep-sea port projects to cut cargo losses to neighbours. Eid Security Boost (Edo): NSCDC deploys 1,542 personnel across Edo for Eid-el-Kabir safety.

Edo Reconstruction Payoff: Edo State says it has finally finished rebuilding the Oba market in Benin City—six years after the 2020 fire—promising traders shop allocations “without charges” and moving those still waiting into the newly completed sections. Power Infrastructure Warning: TCN is urging communities to report faults and stop building under power lines, warning that vandalism and encroachment can turn deadly. Eid Security Surge in Edo: NSCDC has deployed 1,542 personnel across Edo for Eid-el-Kabir, with patrols and intelligence coverage at prayer grounds, markets, highways and motor parks. Agribusiness Jobs Push: Governor Okpebholo flagged off working capital for 637 LIFE-ND agribusiness beneficiaries, pitching agriculture as a route to youth jobs and food security. Federal Energy Plan: FG targets 2,322 CNG stations by 2027, saying CNG is now active in 24 states and already converted 100,000+ vehicles. Politics in Motion: An Edo High Court dismissed a bid to sack an APC state secretary after the claimant discontinued the case.

Reproductive Rights Pressure: A new push is growing across Africa to close the gap between the Maputo Protocol’s promises and local laws that still criminalize care—leaving women to face humiliation and exclusion instead of treatment, with calls for governments to align domestic rules and create real accountability. Edo Security for Eid: In Edo State, NSCDC has deployed 1,542 personnel across prayer grounds, markets, highways and worship centres ahead of Eid-el-Kabir, warning criminals to stay away. ASUU Showdown Looms: ASUU Benin Zone threatens to paralyse public universities over alleged non-implementation of the 2025 agreement, accusing the Federal Government of selective allowance payments. Media Against Fake News: Media and civil society groups are training to fight misinformation ahead of the 2026 elections, including how AI can be used to mislead. Maritime Push: Nigeria approved certification steps for five deep seaports to recover lost cargo traffic, while Tinubu is set to flag off an AU maritime task force to tackle Gulf of Guinea threats. Local Governance & Health: Edo health stakeholders are urging stronger monitoring and citizen engagement to make primary healthcare work better.

Cambodia Cyber-Crackdown: Cambodia deported 3,598 foreigners from May 11–20, including 1,794 Chinese removed by special flights, as authorities push a hard line against cybercrime. Maritime Modernisation: Nigeria’s ports chief, Abubakar Dantsoho, says Africa can’t grow without upgrading obsolete ports, deep-sea capacity and maritime technology—pointing to upgrades across Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire and Benin. ECOWAS Border Push: ECOWAS is intensifying cross-border cooperation to boost trade and tighten security coordination, with Nigeria highlighting its early role in the cross-border programme. Navy Milestone: Nigeria’s Navy marks 70 years with local shipbuilding progress—five vessels completed since 2010 and more under construction—while Tinubu is set to flag off an AU combined maritime task force. Edo University Tension: ASUU Benin Zone threatens to shut down public universities over alleged non-implementation of the 2025 agreement on allowances and monitoring. Human Rights Warning: Police Zone 5 warns officers against extortion and unlawful detention after a seminar on rights violations.

Reparations Pressure in France: Emmanuel Macron faces mounting calls to open a formal process on reparatory justice for France’s role in the transatlantic slave trade as he marks 25 years since slavery was recognised as a crime against humanity. West Africa Security Push: Nigeria is driving ECOWAS cross-border cooperation to tackle terrorism and transboundary crime, with talks bringing together Benin and other neighbours. Nigeria University Crisis: ASUU’s Benin Zone threatens to shut down public universities over alleged non-implementation of the 2025 agreement. Digital Connectivity Boost: The US Trade and Development Agency backs a feasibility study to deploy about 1,500 mobile base stations across Benin, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria, targeting underserved areas. Edo Crackdown on Cybercrime: Edo State declares tougher sanctions against “Yahoo boys,” linking cyber fraud to wider violence concerns. Viral Police Threat: Outrage grows after a viral video shows a police officer threatening to shoot anyone who records him on duty. Togo Opens Borders: Togo removes visas for all African passport holders for up to 30 days, aiming to deepen regional movement and trade.

Security Training Boost: Edo State’s NSCDC has trained 200 personnel in VIP protection, disaster management, public safety, intelligence and crime prevention—part of a push for stronger, more proactive operations. Terror Threat Warning: Yoruba leader Gani Adams says terrorists have infiltrated at least 40 local governments in the South West and are planning coordinated attacks, pointing to ignored intelligence warnings since 2022. Ports for Trade: Nigeria has cleared five deep-sea port projects for investment—Badagry, Olokola, Ibom, Bakassi and Bonny—aimed at reclaiming over 70% of cargo traffic. US Wireless Push: The US Trade and Development Agency is funding a feasibility study for about 1,500 American-made mobile base stations across Nigeria, Benin, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire to expand coverage in underserved areas. Benin Diplomacy: Haiti officially reopened its embassy in Benin during flag-day celebrations in Cotonou, signaling renewed ties. Edo Crackdown: Edo also announced tougher sanctions against “Yahoo boys,” linking cybercrime to wider violent criminal activity.

Diplomacy Reopens: Haiti has officially reopened its embassy in Benin, flying flags side by side in Cotonou as leaders pledged deeper historical and cultural ties. Edo Crackdown: Edo State launched a hard line against “Yahoo boys,” warning internet fraudsters will face cultist-style sanctions and stepped-up surveillance. Security Shock in Oyo: Oyo State is still reeling after gunmen abducted teachers and students from schools near Ogbomoso, with outrage rising over a video showing a slain educator. US Wireless Push: The US Trade and Development Agency is funding a feasibility study for about 1,500 American-made mobile base stations across Benin, Nigeria, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire to expand coverage in underserved areas. Regional Mobility: Togo moved fast to grant visa-free entry to African travellers for up to 30 days, with pre-arrival declarations still required. Cross-border Farming: PRIMA-Togo is running new training sessions with Benin to cut customs and health-rule barriers for agricultural trade.

Diplomatic Push: Benin’s President has been invited to Cambodia for the Francophonie Summit, with the new Benin ambassador to Phnom Penh presenting credentials and Hun Sen stressing deeper ties. Regional Mobility Shockwave: Togo has removed visa requirements for all African passport holders for up to 30 days, after a public forum embarrassment over Nigerians being blocked at Lomé and forced into detours. Tech for Connectivity: The US Trade and Development Agency is backing a feasibility push for about 1,500 mobile base stations across Nigeria, Benin, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire to expand internet access in underserved areas. Security Pressure in Nigeria: Oyo State reels from school kidnappings where gunmen abducted dozens of pupils and teachers, and a teacher’s killing sparked national outrage. Sports Spotlight: Bendel Insurance staged a comeback to reach the President’s Federation Cup Round of 32.

AFCON Qualifying Draw: Ghana and Ivory Coast have been paired in the 2027 AFCON qualifying groups after the draw in Cairo, setting up a high-stakes clash as both chase spots for the finals. Regional Mobility: Togo has announced visa-free entry for all African nationals holding valid passports, allowing stays of up to 30 days, with security and health checks still required. Benin Diplomacy: Cambodia’s Hun Sen received Benin’s new ambassador, Franck E. W. Adjagba, signaling a push to deepen Cambodia–Benin ties ahead of the Francophonie Summit. Edo Politics: Adams Oshiomhole won the Edo APC senatorial primary unopposed for Edo North, while Edo South’s primary produced a contested result with Ogbeide-Ihama defeating Imasuen. Court Update: Nigeria’s court sustained an arrest warrant against former humanitarian minister Sadiya Farouq in an alleged fraud case. Security Shock: Oyo State reels after bandits attacked schools in Oriire, abducting pupils and teachers and sparking outrage after a video of a slain teacher surfaced. Benin Economy: Palm oil prices in Benin City have dipped slightly, bringing “fragile relief” to consumers—though traders warn instability could quickly push prices back up.

Digital Welfare Push: Lomé opened a four-day regional workshop on digitalizing social benefit payments, with World Bank support and BCEAO participation, aiming for interoperable systems and wider financial inclusion across 10 West and Central African countries. Border Security Drive: Nigeria’s National Boundary Commission urged clearer border demarcation during a Nigeria–Benin and Benin–Togo cross-border cooperation programme, arguing it’s key to peace and regional integration. Flood Crisis in Kwara: Heavy rains submerged the collapsed Moro Bridge on the Ilorin–Igbeti corridor, stranding commuters and disrupting access after diversion works failed to finish. Court Update: Nigeria’s FCT High Court sustained an arrest warrant against ex-minister Sadiya Farouq over alleged fraud. Regional Security Move: Nigeria’s Army Chief confirmed troops were deployed to Benin Republic to tackle terrorism and cross-border crime. Edo Politics: Ogbeide-Ihama won the Edo APC senatorial primary for Edo South, beating Imasuen and Ize-Iyamu. Benin Trade & Markets: Palm oil prices in Benin City fell to about ₦1,200–₦1,300 per litre, but traders warn the relief is fragile.

Flood Crisis in Kwara: The Moro Bridge collapse is now compounding into a full travel nightmare as heavy flooding submerges the Ilorin–Igbeti highway area, trapping commuters and leaving the Nigerian Correctional Service unable to move inmates to court—stranded workers and residents say even the temporary diversion has been cut off. Security Push Across Borders: Nigeria’s army chief says troops have been deployed into Benin Republic to help combat terrorism and transnational crime, with emphasis on intelligence sharing and regional cooperation. Roads vs Reality: A fresh look at Nigeria’s federal roads highlights how potholes and stalled repairs keep raising transport costs and delaying trade. Benin City Market Watch: Palm oil prices have dropped to around ₦1,200–₦1,300 per litre, but traders call it “fragile relief” due to unstable supply and fuel-linked inflation. Sports Spotlight: Bendel Insurance begin the President Federation Cup campaign May 19 against Katsina United Junior, while Warri Wolves face Stormers SC in the Round of 64.

Counterterrorism Shock: US President Donald Trump says joint US–Nigerian forces killed ISIS commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki in a helicopter-borne strike in Sokoto, signaling a sharper American push in West Africa’s security fight. EFCC Backlash: Nigeria’s anti-graft agency has “bowed” to calls for investigations after alleged attacks on medical workers at Uyo Teaching Hospital, following public outrage over past raid-style operations. Edo Security & Power: Edo Governor Okpebholo pledged stronger police collaboration after the new IGP, Olatunji Disu, visited Government House, while TCN inaugurated new 330kV transmission lines to ease power bottlenecks in the Benin corridor. Regional Mobility: Nigeria says Rwandans can enter visa-free for up to 30 days under a new bilateral deal. Sports: Nigeria’s Falconets were drawn into Group F for the U-20 Women’s World Cup with Spain, China and New Caledonia. Benin Spotlight: At ECOWAS’ field mission in Benin, officials are checking school meals, district hospitals, dams and solar streetlights as part of efforts to strengthen social cohesion.

Counterterrorism Update: US President Trump says joint US–Nigerian forces killed ISIS senior commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki in a Sokoto strike, signaling deeper American involvement in West Africa’s security fight. EFCC Backlash: Nigeria’s anti-graft agency has “bowed” to calls for investigations after alleged EFCC operatives attacked medical workers at Uyo Teaching Hospital, following public outrage over rights abuses during raids. Education Under Pressure: The Nigerian Union of Teachers warns that a UTME waiver for NCE candidates could weaken standards, arguing teacher training needs stronger selection and better teacher welfare. Regional Mobility: Rwanda citizens can now enter Nigeria visa-free for up to 30 days under a new bilateral deal. Edo Power & Security: TCN inaugurates a 330kV transmission line project in Edo to ease grid bottlenecks, while Edo’s governor pledges support to the new IGP Disu for tighter security collaboration. Sports: Nigeria’s Falconets were drawn in Group F with Spain, China and New Caledonia for the U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Cannes Shock for Africa: African-made films were left out of this year’s Palme d’Or contenders, even as Nigeria, South Africa and other countries keep producing—though several African titles still show up in other Cannes sections. Refugee Identity Push: At ID4Africa in Abidjan, speakers urged faster, safer legal and digital identity for refugees and stateless people, warning that weak safeguards can break public trust. Digital ID Security: The same meeting stressed digital identity is now “critical infrastructure,” calling for cybersecurity built in from the start. Nigeria Security Pressure: A US congressman demanded “forceful action” to protect Christians in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, while Trump said a US-Nigeria strike in Sokoto killed a senior ISIS commander. Kidnapping Crisis: Gunmen abducted 50+ schoolchildren in northeastern Nigeria, renewing fears for schools. Edo Power & Policing: Edo inaugurated new 330kV transmission lines and pledged support for the new IGP, as police collaboration takes center stage.

EFCC Under Fire: The anti-graft agency has “bowed” to backlash after operatives allegedly attacked medical workers during a raid at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, with arrests and videos of tear gas sparking public outrage. Counterterrorism: The US and Nigeria jointly killed a senior ISIS commander in a Sokoto strike, with President Trump calling it a major escalation. Sports: Nigeria’s Falconets were drawn into Group F with Spain, China and New Caledonia for the 2026 U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland. Power & Infrastructure (Edo): TCN inaugurated a 330kV turn-in-turn-out transmission line project in Edo to boost electricity evacuation and reduce bottlenecks. Benin City Development: Edo’s NHIA and state partners onboarded new cohorts of health fellows to strengthen primary care. Regional Connectivity: Tinubu says Nigeria is building a 1,000km Sokoto–Badagry road linking Benin Republic and Ghana.