AGP Executive Report

Energy: Chad’s energy minister inspected a 35-megawatt solar plant and set an October deadline for grid tests, putting pressure on a key project in the country’s push to expand power access. Land Restoration: A new $78 million UN-backed programme will support restoration and livelihoods across nine Great Green Wall countries, including Chad; it aims to rehabilitate more than 270,000 hectares and reach five million people. Refugee Crisis: Reports from Chad’s desert refugee camps describe young mothers burying children and struggling to find help, underscoring the severe humanitarian needs facing displaced families. Lake Chad Security: Funding gaps are straining the regional force fighting armed groups around the basin, with Nigeria reportedly bearing much of the burden—an ongoing concern for Chad and its neighbours.

Refugee Emergency: Young mothers in Chad’s desert refugee camps say they are burying their children with little help, underscoring the severe strain on displaced families. Public Health: A UN report says more than 251 tonnes of illicit medical products were seized across five Central African countries, including Chad, from 2020 to 2025; the trade risks treatment failures and poisoning. Infrastructure: AGL Cameroon transported two oversized loads, weighing 52 and 58 tonnes, more than 2,000 kilometres from Douala to the Djermaya refinery in N’Djamena. Regional Connectivity: Algeria and Niger have launched a cross-border fibre link that forms part of a planned backbone extending to Chad and other Sahelian countries. Lake Chad Security: Nigerian troops repelled an ISWAP assault near Lake Chad in Borno State, killing more than 25 militants, according to military sources; troop casualties were not disclosed.

Sudan Refugee Crisis in Chad: A new report from eastern Chad describes Sudanese refugees living in overcrowded desert camps, with young mothers digging graves and pleading that “there is nobody who can help us,” as war inside Sudan pushes aid networks toward collapse. Nigeria Oil Push: Nigeria’s upstream regulator (NUPRC) opened a 2026 licensing round offering 40 oil blocks and says bidders must disclose beneficial owners, as President Tinubu frames oil reforms as the route to a modern, diversified economy. Elections Funding Pressure: Nigeria’s INEC is demanding the prompt release of remaining 2027 election funds, warning delays could hurt preparations and credibility. Regional Connectivity: Niger and Algeria launched a 100 Gbit/s fiber link as part of a wider trans-Saharan backbone plan that also targets stronger ties with Burkina Faso and Benin, with Chad included in the broader network. Local Governance Watch: Westover officials are investigating abandoned ClearFiber infrastructure after residents complained about derelict junction boxes, while planning next steps on removal or property claims.

Energy & Development: Chad’s electricity push moves forward as two hybrid solar projects in N’Djamena (Gassi and Lamadji) reach financial close, adding 30 MW-peak of solar and 8 MWh of battery storage under a 20-year deal with Tchadelec, backed by €37.9M from the African Development Bank and partners. Public Health: The UN warns that medicine trafficking is a major threat across Central Africa, with at least 251 tonnes of medicines seized in CEMAC countries from 2020-2025, including in Chad—fueling treatment failures, poisonings, and avoidable deaths. Regional Security: The EU warns Ethiopia-Eritrea tensions could spark a wider regional conflict as Isaias Afwerki returns from talks in Egypt, urging de-escalation and humanitarian access. Trade & Infrastructure: West Africa’s logistics debate heats up as the Port of Cotonou’s cargo jumps to 14.7 million tonnes in 2025 and transit rises with growing flows tied to Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and Chad. Weather Risk: UNICEF flags that El Niño’s expanding reach could worsen hunger and malnutrition in crisis-hit places like Chad, alongside flood and drought risks for children. Digital Connectivity: Algeria and Niger officially launch the Trans-Saharan Fiber Optic Backbone link, boosting cross-border connectivity between In Guezzam and the Arlit-Agadez region.

Lake Chad Security: Funding shortfalls are squeezing the Multinational Joint Task Force as violence rises around Lake Chad, with Nigeria carrying most of the bill and partners warning the gap won’t close without more regional support. Conservation in Chad: A new study reports 113 hooded vultures around N’Djamena, but poisoning and illegal hunting remain the main threats to the critically endangered scavengers. Education Policy: Chad’s Education Ministry is reviewing how electronic devices should be used in schools, balancing tech access with concerns about cognitive impacts from overexposure. Regional Diplomacy: Chad’s ties with Niger are highlighted by President Tebboune, while Algeria, Niger, and Chad relations also get official praise. Business & Growth: SparkHaus in Kentucky is pitching itself as a founder community backed by Blue North, aiming to lower the funding hurdle for early-stage tech startups.

Lake Chad Security Funding: Security experts warn the Multinational Joint Task Force is running short of money as violence around Lake Chad rises, with Nigeria covering most costs and Niger suspending participation—raising fears Boko Haram and ISWAP containment will slip. Regional Diplomacy: Algeria’s Tebboune praised “excellent relations” with Niger and Chad and ordered closer monitoring and faster implementation of joint projects in energy, education, health, and telecoms. Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan: Sudan Doctors Network condemned RSF drone attacks on WFP aid trucks, killing a driver and injuring others, calling for an independent investigation. Digital Infrastructure in Chad: Vertiv signed an MoU with Cybastion to push digital infrastructure projects across Northwest Africa, explicitly including Chad, aiming to plug into government-led digitalization programs. Healthcare Leadership (Chad Towner): Mercy named Chad W. Towner its next president and CEO after a national search, with him starting Oct. 19.

Police Accountability: South Africa’s IPID says rape cases involving police officers rose to 116 in 2025/26 (up from 95), with 44 tied to off-duty officers and 72 to those on duty—raising fresh pressure to identify and remove officers implicated in gender-based violence. Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan: Amnesty reports children in North Darfur are being recruited by the RSF, subjected to sexual violence, and left facing starvation and years without education. Borno Oil Push: Nigeria’s North-East governors, led by Borno’s Babagana Zulum, urged the federal government to restart stalled oil exploration in Magumeri and Gubio, while praising Tinubu’s push to revive the Kolmani field. Gas Infrastructure Funding: NNPC committed N473.8bn to gas infrastructure, including the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline, with details on outstanding interest and undrawn loan balances. Chad in UN Aid: The UN released $160m from CERF for 12 underfunded crises, including $9m for Chad. Surveillance Cameras Debate: A new report and legal push target Flock’s AI camera network, with critics warning the system is far bigger than publicly stated and raising privacy concerns.

Oil & Security in the Sahel: Nigeria’s North-East Governors’ Forum, led by Borno Governor Babagana Zulum, urged President Tinubu to revive stalled oil exploration in Borno—especially Magumeri and Gubio—while praising renewed work on the Kolmani field and the Lake Chad Basin. Regional Diplomacy: Egypt and Chad signed a medical cooperation deal on the sidelines of the Alamein Africa Forum, covering pharmaceuticals, biological products, and medical supplies. Humanitarian Funding: The UN released $160 million from the CERF for life-saving aid across 12 underfunded crises, including Chad, Mali, Niger, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Yemen. Governance & Infrastructure: Algeria’s President Abdelmadjid Tebboune chaired a Council of Ministers meeting reviewing the 2027 finance bill, major rail projects, and progress on joint committees with Niger and Chad. Local Spotlight: Morningside University inaugurated Chad W. Benson as its 14th president.

Boko Haram Update (Nigeria): Gombe State Gov. Inuwa Yahaya says the insurgency in Nigeria’s North-East has been weakened but “not defeated,” warning attacks continue and banditry and communal clashes are rising. Regional Security & Development (Nigeria): At the North-East Governors’ Forum in Maiduguri, governors praised Tinubu-backed infrastructure progress while pushing harder on stalled priorities like rail connectivity and broadband expansion. Oil Pressure (Borno/Lake Chad Basin): Borno Gov. Babagana Zulum urged the Federal Government to revive oil exploration in Magumeri and Gubio, and extend momentum beyond Kolmani to Borno’s fields and the Lake Chad Basin. Humanitarian Funding (UN): The UN released $160M from CERF for 12 underfunded crises, including $9M for Chad, as 87M people face severe needs. Chad-Egypt Health Deal: Egypt’s foreign minister met Chad’s new top diplomat and witnessed an MoU between Egypt’s drug authority and Chad’s health ministry to expand medical and biological product cooperation. Ethiopia–Eritrea Rift Warning: Analysis flags how Ethiopia’s embassy closure and diplomatic break with Eritrea could widen conflict risks across the Horn and beyond. Boko Haram Attack (Borno): Suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP killed 15 villagers collecting firewood in Marte LGA, according to police.

North-East Governance: Governors in Maiduguri praised President Tinubu’s support for regional roads, rail and Kolmani/Lake Chad projects, while unveiling new plans to tackle insecurity and poverty through stronger implementation mechanisms. Humanitarian Funding: The UN released $160 million from the CERF for 12 underfunded crises, including $9m for Chad, aiming to reach 87 million people this year. Borno Security & Economy: Borno Governor Babagana Zulum urged the Federal Government to revive oil exploration in Magumeri and Gubio, saying it should match the renewed Kolmani push. Chad-Egypt Health Ties: Egypt and Chad signed a medical cooperation deal on the sidelines of the Alamein Africa Forum, including expanded supply and regulation of medical and biological products. Lake Chad Basin Violence: Boko Haram/ISWAP attacks in Nigeria’s Borno killed 15 villagers collecting firewood, underscoring ongoing threats across the Lake Chad region.

Humanitarian Funding: The UN released $160 million in emergency aid via CERF for 12 underfunded crises, including Chad (about $9m), with an extra $10m earmarked to make disability support more accessible. Politics in Nigeria: The Economist says President Bola Tinubu could still win re-election in Jan. 2027 despite public anger, while Nigeria’s opposition parties push back and the Presidency defends the reforms. Security in the Lake Chad region: Nigeria reports troops in Adamawa killing 16 extremists and recovering weapons, while Cameroon is set to reinforce its Lake Chad security response amid Boko Haram threats. Aid access warning: UN relief chief Tom Fletcher stressed that money won’t be enough unless leaders open access and remove obstacles to reach people. Governance and accountability: Malawi’s ex-army chief Paul Velentino Phiri was granted bail after ACB charges tied to alleged misuse of office and an end-user certificate linked to Sudan-bound military equipment.

Boko Haram/ISWAP Attacks Lake Chad Basin: Suspected Boko Haram fighters ambushed farmers in Marte, Borno, killing at least 15 and leaving others missing, with victims reportedly accused of spying for the military; Amnesty says it violates international humanitarian law. Humanitarian Funding: The UN released $160M in emergency aid for 12 underfunded crises, including $9M for Chad, as OCHA warns 87M people need help and access barriers remain. Sudan–Chad Border Aid: Sudan extended a border opening with Chad for humanitarian aid for three months, keeping relief routes moving amid ongoing instability. Regional Diplomacy: Ethiopia and Libya advanced plans for renewed institutional cooperation after a Tripoli meeting, focusing on diplomacy, migration, security, and economic ties. Security Cooperation: Nigeria and the U.S. deepened counter-terrorism ties, prioritizing intelligence sharing and special forces training. Tech & Rights Debate (Lake Chad-linked): Discussions around surveillance tech and license plate readers continue, with lawmakers weighing stricter limits amid public concern over misuse.

Security in Nigeria (Kaduna): Nigerian troops on Operation Enduring Peace foiled a kidnapping attempt along the Godogodo–Gidan Waya road in Jema’a LGA, Kaduna, rescuing a wounded man and forcing suspects to flee; troops are now hunting the attackers. Humanitarian Access (Chad–Sudan): Sudanese displacement into Chad is surging, and Chad has extended border openings for humanitarian aid, including a three-month extension for Adre to support relief operations. Regional Conflict Risk (Ethiopia/Tigray): Renewed fighting in Ethiopia’s Tigray is raising fears of spillover across the Horn of Africa, with neighboring states and wider rivalries pulling in. Refugee Education Funding: UNHCR warns education cuts could leave millions of refugee children out of school, with secondary enrollment hit hardest. Lake Chad Security (Cameroon): Cameroon plans to reinforce Lake Chad Basin security response amid renewed Boko Haram threats. Chad in Finance/Development: Ashurst Perkins Coie advises lenders on limited recourse financing for Chad hybrid solar projects, signaling continued investment momentum. Regional Banking (CEMAC): CEMAC banks report improved loan quality, with non-performing loan ratios falling to 15.4% by June 2026.

Sudan–Chad Humanitarian Corridor: Sudan extended the Adre border crossing opening with Chad for another three months, letting aid agencies keep moving supplies through the key route until Dec. 31, as fighting and displacement keep pressure on civilians. Lake Chad Security: Cameroon plans to reinforce its Lake Chad security response amid renewed Boko Haram threats, including a new elite BIR Lake Chad unit and emergency support for displaced communities. Chad–France Reset: Chad and France are quietly rebuilding ties after the end of France’s military presence, shifting toward business and a more discreet security partnership. Energy for N’Djamena: Chad’s solar push gets a boost as lenders back two Gassi and Lamadji solar PV projects with battery storage, aiming to cut the country’s severe energy deficit. Regional War Spillover: Fighting across the Horn and beyond continues to worsen displacement, with Sudan drone attacks reported on university dormitories and ongoing pressure on humanitarian systems.

Chad & Sudan Displacement: UN reporting says more than 55,000 Sudanese have fled into Chad this year, with crossings surging as aid runs dry—raising fresh alarms for protection and basic services in the Lake Chad region. UN Security Council / Haiti Spillover: The Council renewed Haiti’s Gang Suppression Force mandate for six months, pushing for rapid deployment and renewed state control—another reminder of how instability keeps spreading across borders. ICC Pressure & African Withdrawals: The ICC’s governing body regretted Naoero’s withdrawal as the U.S. ramps up pressure on countries to leave the court; the statement notes disengagement risks weakening global anti-impunity efforts, with Chad among those signaling intent to exit. Regional Security Cooperation: Nigeria’s defense chief reiterated deeper U.S. military cooperation on counter-terrorism and intelligence sharing, citing gains around the Lake Chad Basin. Local Governance (Chad-linked): Cameroon ordered rail operator Camrail to speed up contracts for the Douala–N’Djamena corridor, aiming to push implementation forward despite delays.

South Sudan Elections Watch: South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, speaking for the AU’s C5 (including Chad), urged South Sudan’s leaders to fully uphold the 2018 peace deal as December elections approach, warning that a ballot alone won’t secure peace and calling for swift resolution of remaining political, legal, security, and operational gaps. UN Humanitarian Alarm: UNHCR says severe funding cuts could cripple refugee protection worldwide, with 8.3 million people at risk; the agency highlights delays and collapsing services in places including Chad. Chad-Linked Regional Security: The AU and C5 push comes alongside renewed pressure across the region as South Sudan’s transitional process remains shaky after political uncertainty. Cameroon-Chad Corridor Update: Cameroon told rail operator Camrail to speed up contract finalization for the Douala–N’Djamena corridor rail component, aiming to move implementation forward despite delays. Chad Mission Scrutiny (Hungary): Hungary’s defense minister claims nearly EUR 11m was spent preparing a Chad military mission, while raising questions about the role of Viktor Orbán’s son.