ECOWAS Startup Awards: The ECOWAS Commission has opened applications for the second edition of its Startup Awards, offering $65,000 in cash prizes to innovative startups across 12 member states. Nigerian founders can apply from Aug. 3 to Aug. 31, 2026, with virtual masterclasses (Sept. 21–25) and a physical event in Abuja (Sept. 28–30) before regional finals on Sept. 30. Industrial Competitiveness: Nigeria’s manufacturers are being urged to adopt smart tech—AI, automation and digital transformation—to cut costs and boost productivity, as the FCT minister pushes for better infrastructure, security and public-private collaboration. Banking Recognition: Zenith Bank’s CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, received the Zik Pan-African Award for Transformational Leadership, as the bank expands in Ghana to 43 branches. Transport & Trade: Nigeria’s onion exporters face continued restrictions at Ghana’s Kotoku Market, with NOPPMAN calling on ECOWAS to intervene to protect perishable supply chains. Road Infrastructure: The FG targets November 2026 to complete the remaining 164km on the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano highway after paying over 80% of the contract value. Security & Food Risks: Reports warn of a looming food crisis as banditry blocks farmers from accessing farmlands in key northern states. Niger Security/Resources: Algeria has donated Mi-24V and Mi-171 helicopters to Niger to support counterterror operations, while Niger’s gold mining health risks are flagged by the state assembly. US Visa Processing: The US clarified that shifting routine visa processing to regional hubs won’t close the Abuja embassy, though applicants may need to use the new hub system.