Republic of Benin in West Africa
ECOWAS members have endorsed the Nigeria–Morocco Atlantic Gas Pipeline, a 6,800-km conduit linking 13 West African states with potential to export 30 bcm of gas annually. The project aims to diversify energy supplies, boost regional integration and support electricity generation, while weighing security and financing risks as construction eyes 2028 start.
Nauru has renamed itself to Naoero, with the short form Naoero and citizens identified as dei-Naoero. The government has dropped plans for a referendum, saying the change reflects an existing national identity and heritage. Transition is underway and international bodies have been informed.
Ukrainian drone attacks have struck multiple Wildberries warehouses and nearby energy and port facilities across Russia's Volga and southern regions over recent weeks, causing fires, evacuations and injuries. Russian authorities say they have intercepted hundreds of drones; Wildberries says some logistics centres have halted operations but denies assisting the military.
Nauru has officially changed its name to the Republic of Naoero, reverting to its traditional designation. The government says the move strengthens national identity and heritage; the UN and several foreign ministries have updated their listings accordingly. A referendum was not pursued, with lawmakers endorsing the change after “extensive discussions.” The transition will also affect the country’s international code and demonym.
Four US-based rights organisations have filed a federal lawsuit in New York challenging last year’s executive order that authorised US sanctions on International Criminal Court judges, prosecutors and groups that cooperate with the court. The complaint has argued the measures have forced them to curtail work, violated constitutional rights and unlawfully interfered with international justice.
Nigeria has announced the rescue of 308 kidnapped citizens in a coordinated operation involving the military, police, and intelligence services. Of the rescued, 163 were abducted from Woro in Kwara State and 145 from Niger State. Victims are receiving medical care and will be reunited with families as security agencies pledge to strengthen early-warning systems.
Nigeria has freed 308 people who had been held captive for months after a joint military, police and counter-terrorism operation recovered hostages from Kainji Lake national park. The group includes 163 people taken in February from Woro in Kwara state and 145 taken mainly in Niger state; survivors are receiving medical checks at an army facility.
Zendocs is launching a browser-based document platform designed to eliminate downloads and installations, offering speed, accessibility and real-time collaboration. Founders say the platform responds to the need for fast, mobile-friendly tools and aims to become a global reference for browser-only document workflows.
The Malian army faces a major assault by JNIM at the Dioura base on Sept. 10, with hundreds of militants and civilian concerns. In response, Mali’s military leadership proclaims operational pressure while authorities note casualties and the strategic impact on security in the region.
West African cotton sectors are being recalibrated to add value locally. Mali aims to spin fibre into yarn; Benin is expanding finished-product exports from the GDIZ hub; Kenya is reviving its textile value chain from farm to fashion amid policy pushes. The push seeks to create jobs, curb imports, and widen local participation.
Lionel Messi has helped Inter Miami win the Campeones Cup with a 2-0 victory over Cruz Azul, sealing the club’s first Campeones Cup trophy and adding another trophy to Messi’s MLS era. Casemiro’s late header secures the win after Messi’s early headed goal; the ceremony also marks new coach Cristian Gonzalez’s first game in charge.
Messi has announced his retirement from international duty and will be honoured in a farewell match on 6 October in Buenos Aires. Argentina will host Benin, Burkina Faso and Bolivia in a FIFA window with reductions in capacity due to sanctions. Several players face suspensions from the World Cup final. The event marks Argentina’s return home after the tournament and signals changes ahead for the national team.
Argentina’s national team is negotiating Scaloni’s extension while preparing for friendlies against Bolivia, Burkina Faso, and Benin. Lionel Messi will bid farewell in the final Benin match as Scaloni steers a transition after a record run of success.
Argentina faces an uncertain future after Lionel Messi confirms international retirement. The 2026 World Cup icon has dominated the national team for 21 years, prompting questions about leadership, strategy, and the post-Messi era as the federation maps out its next steps.
An ATR-42 military aircraft on a Benin–Lagos routine flight has crashed near Igbokoda, Ondo State. Authorities have activated search-and-rescue operations and declared three days of national mourning. Initial reports indicate 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board; casualty figures remain unconfirmed.
Argentina’s Lionel Messi has wrapped up his international career with a goal in a 3-0 win over Benin, while Cristiano Ronaldo’s row with coach Jorge Jesus over a Nations League benching has sparked questions about his international future. The stories cross-pollinate as both legends navigate endings and what comes next for their nations.
Messi has bid farewell to international soccer after 21 years and 208 caps, finishing with 126 goals and a World Cup title. A national farewell turned into a celebration as fans fill Buenos Aires and former teammates honor the legend.
Lionel Messi has delivered a final international performance for Argentina, guiding his side to a 3-0 win over Benin in Buenos Aires in what is being hailed as his last tango with the national team. He has provided an assist, scored from the spot, and bid emotional thanks to fans, teammates, and family before stepping away from international football.