Innovation & Startups: Nigeria climbed to 62nd in StartupBlink’s Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2026, its best spot since 2022, with a 31.8% ecosystem growth rate—though the business environment still lags (ranked 95th). Digital IDs for Cooperatives: Nigeria begins a six-month cooperative revalidation and rolls out digital credentials (CVN and CoopID) to link verified cooperatives and members to government and financial services, supported by a national smart registry and a credit bureau (CoopCHECK). Science & Tech in Benin: AfriLabs’ 11th Annual Gathering will be held in Cotonou, Benin, on Nov 18–20, spotlighting Africa’s innovation hubs and tech ecosystem building. Diplomacy with a STEM background: Switzerland appoints Dr Thomas Oertle as ambassador-designate to Ghana, Benin and Togo; his career includes international cooperation roles and studies in molecular biology and neuroscience. Health & Tech Services: UBTH plans free outreach for 5,000 people, including screenings and advanced services like CT imaging and cancer checks. Education Tech & Skills: Mastercard Foundation Scholars alumni from Université d’Abomey-Calavi complete English and entrepreneurship training, then head to Ashesi University for immersion. Energy Systems Thinking: A West Africa energy-market piece argues the region must build integrated market architecture (not just projects) to unlock long-term value.