The Nigerian Army has declared senior ISWAP leaders wanted as part of efforts to disrupt the group’s leadership and operations in the North-East. Can targeting ISWAP’s leadership significantly weaken the insurgency?

Clashes in Kebbi State have killed 29 people, including 10 policemen, highlighting the continuing security challenges facing northern Nigeria and the pressure on security agencies. What does the high number of casualties say about Nigeria’s security preparedness?

The DRC’s release of prisoners to the AFC-M23 movement could influence ongoing efforts to address the conflict in eastern Congo, but may also strengthen the armed group. Will the prisoner release contribute to peace or give M23 greater capacity to continue fighting?

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Nigeria's Presidency and Catholic Bishops in the country have exchanged heated public statements over the state of the country. Does constructive criticism from religious leaders help strengthen governance, or does it unnecessarily politicise national issues?

President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30% and 80% for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces. Will a salary increase alone significantly improve the effectiveness of Nigeria's military, or are broader reforms also needed?

Mali's former Prime Minister has been released after a year in detention. Could the release of Mali's former Prime Minister help ease political tensions, or is more needed to restore stability?

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Chad has announced its withdrawal from the International Criminal Court, arguing that the court has unfairly targeted African countries. What could Chad's exit from the ICC mean for the fight against impunity and human rights abuses in Africa?

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has launched Kiiraay, a new party merging 437 groups to consolidate his political base. Can one roof truly hold them all? 

President Bola Tinubu declined to receive a visiting South African delegation. How could tensions between Nigeria and South Africa affect regional cooperation and economic ties?

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The US House of Representatives passed a measure to stop aid to Nigeria, a move that could shape future cooperation between both countries. How could changes in US aid affect Nigeria's development and bilateral relations with the United States?

Nigeria has brought back 1,490 citizens from South Africa, while the House of Representatives is investigating the losses suffered by Nigerians during attacks in the country. The stories highlight ongoing concerns about the safety of Nigerians living abroad. How can Nigeria and South Africa better protect Nigerians from future attacks?

Chinese company, Zijin Mining, has started exporting lithium from Congo Kinshasa, marking another step in Africa's growing role in the global supply of critical minerals. How can the DRC ensure its lithium wealth delivers long-term economic benefits for its people?

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Nigeria's crude oil production has reached a six-year high, exceeding its OPEC quota and signalling a recovery in the oil sector. At the same time, Dangote Refinery has started pricing fuel in U.S. dollars for bulk buyers.  Does rising oil production outweigh the economic risks of dollar-priced fuel?

Nigeria raised ₦5.08 trillion through bond sales to finance government spending and infrastructure, reflecting strong investor confidence but also raising concerns about the country's growing debt. Should Nigeria rely more on borrowing or on increasing government revenue to fund development?

Ghana recorded 24,778 fraud cases, highlighting growing concerns over financial crime. What should Ghana prioritise: strengthening financial security or boosting economic growth?

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Nigeria Customs' revenue rose by 28.85%, while the NNPC's revenue fell by 13%. What do these contrasting performances mean for Nigeria's economy?

Meanwhile, Nigeria has opened a new lithium processing plant to add value to its mineral resources and support industrialisation. How can Nigeria maximise the benefits of its critical minerals? Is there a geopolitical angle to this?

Finally, Moroccan authorities said they disrupted a suspected Islamic State-linked terrorist plot, highlighting ongoing security threats in the Sahel. What more should African countries do to tackle terrorism across the region?

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Credit to Nigeria's government has increased sharply as the country seeks a new Eurobond. Will increased borrowing strengthen Nigeria's economy or deepen its debt challenges?

The Dangote Refinery has attracted nearly $2 billion through its IPO and secured additional crude supplies from the UAE. Will these developments cement Dangote Refinery's position as a key player in Africa's energy sector?

Deadly floods in the Ivory Coast have killed 20 people and are threatening the country's cocoa mid-crop. What steps should African governments take to protect communities and key industries from climate-related disasters?

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More African countries are using the Chinese yuan for trade with China, deepening China's economic influence on the continent. Should Africa rely less on the US dollar?

Ivory Coast has announced a new oil discovery that could boost its economy, attract investment, and create jobs. Can oil wealth truly benefit ordinary citizens?

Nigeria's Senate has voted for state policing following a Bill sent by President Bola Tinubu. Will state-controlled police will improve security or be politically abused in the country?

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Benin’s new President, Romuald Wadagni, has commenced a subregional tour to strengthen diplomatic relations, promote economic cooperation, and address regional security challenges. What should be his top priority during this tour?

Nigeria has intensified its fight against terrorism, securing 150 terrorism-related convictions and sentencing four people to death for their role in the 2022 Owo church attack. What additional measures should Nigeria adopt to prevent terrorism and strengthen national security?

Meanwhile, an Army officer was killed during a rescue mission involving students in Oyo State, underscoring the risks security personnel face while safeguarding civilians. What more can be done to enhance the safety of security personnel during rescue operations?

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This week, we focus on SBM Intelligence's latest report, Nigeria 2027: How the Country May Vote – Voter Sentiment Tracker, Wave 1 Analysis.

The report provides an early snapshot of voter sentiment ahead of the 2027 elections, revealing widespread dissatisfaction with the country's direction, strong support for political change, and significant regional differences in voter preferences. It highlights the importance of voter turnout, identifies the South-West as a key battleground region, and shows that economic hardship and insecurity remain the issues that matter most to Nigerians.

The report also raises concerns about the growing influence of social media, misinformation, and AI-generated content on the electoral process.

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