Regional Energy Politics: ECOWAS has endorsed the Nigeria–Morocco African Atlantic Gas Pipeline, a ~$25bn, 6,900km project aimed at monetising Nigeria’s gas and building a wider West Africa–North Africa–Europe supply corridor, though financing and transit rules still need agreement. Fuel Market Volatility (Nigeria): Nigeria’s petrol import jumped 207% in June (to 18.1m litres/day) even as domestic supply fell, raising fears of undermining local refining; at the same time, marketers paused fresh buying amid uncertainty over Dangote’s reported dollar pricing, with the FG opening talks to stabilise loading and pump prices. Consumer Impact (Nigeria): Cooking gas (LPG) prices are now widely spread at about ₦1,100–₦1,550 per kg, with inland logistics driving the gap—so consumers are urged to compare rates and avoid roadside resellers. Electricity Governance (Nigeria): NERC backed calls for cooperation in Nigeria’s decentralised, multi-tier power market, stressing Nigerians care about reliable supply more than regulatory turf. Retail & Payments (Namibia/Kenya): Paratus Namibia was named Namibia’s Most Reliable Internet Provider, while Kenya’s Co-op push and broader digital banking awards underline continued consumer demand for dependable connectivity and services. Illicit Trade Crackdowns (Kenya/Nigeria): Police seized 220 litres of chang’aa in Kibra, and Nigeria’s army dismantled an illegal bunkering site in Lagos, arresting six suspects. Startup & Standards Push (Nigeria): FG launched iDICE Growth Lab with up to $350,000 for 12 tech-enabled startups, and SON rolled out a Digital Standards Platform with discounts up to 35% to cut compliance costs for manufacturers.