ICC Backlash: A fresh op-ed argues the International Criminal Court has become politically selective and calls for dismantling it, reigniting debate over global justice. Nigeria–US Security & Trade: Abuja and Washington reaffirm plans to deepen cooperation on trade, maritime security, counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing and regional peace, with the next talks set for August. West Africa Stability: France’s ambassador says the region needs a strong, united Nigeria to withstand terrorism and keep Europe-Africa ties focused on stability. Uganda Crackdown: Human Rights Watch reports military seizures of government critics and raids on independent media, warning dissent is being met with due-process violations. Mali Trafficking Alarm: A viral video from Mali shows Nigerian women and girls in black-tarp shelters, spotlighting forced labour and sexual exploitation risks. Nairobi Policing Upgrade: Kenya selects Kamukunji Police Station as the planned Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit headquarters, with construction due to start in August. Gambia Investment Push: FirstBank convenes President Adama Barrow and Aliko Dangote to boost The Gambia’s industrial development agenda. AI Governance Race: Xi Jinping pitches open-source AI and a new global AI cooperation body, challenging US influence over AI rules. Sowore 2027 Mobilisation: Omoyele Sowore launches SoworeNOW, a mobile app for campaign updates, rallies and supporter coordination ahead of 2027. Ebola Warning (DRC): WHO says DRC Ebola cases are nearing 2,100 as community transmission persists.