NYSC Travel Update (Niger & Sokoto): The National Youth Service Corps extended the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream II orientation start in Niger and Sokoto to Wednesday, 12 August 2026, with swearing-in/cut-off on Friday, 14 August and closing on Tuesday, 1 September. PCMs are urged to avoid night travel to the camps. Road Safety Alert (Niger State): A deadly bus crash on the Enagi–Mokwa Road killed 15 and injured 25 after a head-on collision linked to wrongful overtaking at a bend and overspeeding. Highway Disruption (Mokwa–Bida): Protesters blocked the Mokwa–Bida Highway over alleged banditry and abductions, leaving travellers stranded for hours and disrupting a key transport corridor. US Visa Processing Shift (Niamey affected): The US says routine visa services at Niamey and other African posts will be consolidated into regional hubs from 1 August 2026, with embassies still handling other services. Health Watch (Diphtheria, Niger State): Niger State recorded 124 diphtheria cases with 17 deaths across three local government areas, as authorities push surveillance, immunisation and public awareness. Security & Travel Risk (Niger Highway attack): Reports say attackers killed a man and woman and abducted other passengers along the Kainji–Ibbi–Zurguma–Mokwa Road, including a baby tied to the mother’s back.