School Security in Edo: The DSS warned of a planned mass abduction of schoolchildren in Edo North, prompting early school closures and fresh calls for protection of students. Forest Guards Recruitment: Edo State says it has started training 500 forest guards, with plans to recruit another 500 to reach 1,000, targeting kidnappers and securing forests and farmlands. Teacher Salary Claims Denied: Edo officials dismissed reports that teachers are being owed salaries as misleading and politically motivated, urging specific complaints for investigation. Road Works Watch: Works Minister David Umahi inspected the Lokoja–Benin corridor and warned contractors against delays, saying underperformance will face consequences. Environment Partnership: Governor Okpebholo pledged closer collaboration with Nigeria’s Ministry of Environment to tackle encroachment in national parks. Illegal Gambling Crackdown: Nigeria’s lottery regulator urged stronger action against illegal gambling, citing losses affecting countries including Benin. World Cup 2026 Kickoff: Mexico open the tournament against South Africa, with Benin highlighted in the qualifying context. Tech for Africa: Google’s Ask Gemini in Chrome rollout expands to Benin alongside Kenya and Nigeria. Sports (Edo): Edo Queens thrashed Abia Angels 6-2 in the NWFL Super Six.