Ethiopia’s 7th General Election: Deputy PM Temesgen Tiruneh called the June 1 vote a milestone for Ethiopia’s democratic culture, praising peaceful, participatory balloting and pledging continued support for dialogue and civic space. Electoral Credibility: As counting moved to complaints, NEBE reported dozens of challenges over alleged irregularities, with final results potentially delayed by disputes. Sea Access & Security: PM’s security advisor Kenea Yadeta said Ethiopia’s sovereign access to the sea is grounded in historical and legal claims and is meant to deepen regional integration and security. Tigray Security Warning: A Tigray interim official warned that a rump TPLF faction could drag northern Ethiopia back into conflict, urging stronger action to protect the peace process. Ethiopia–Nigeria Prisoner Swap: Nigeria’s foreign minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu visited inmates in Addis Ababa, telling them Nigeria won’t abandon them as about 98 prisoners are set to be repatriated under a new transfer agreement. Drug Trafficking Case: Nigeria’s NDLEA said it arrested a Brazil-based businessman at Lagos airport after finding 6.1kg of liquid cocaine hidden in shirts and towels, with the suspect arriving via Addis Ababa. UN Appointment: UN chief António Guterres named Nigerian development expert Ahunna Eziakonwa as Special Adviser on Africa. Diplomacy & Culture: BRICS agriculture ministers adopted the Indore Declaration, including new seed-rights and digital agriculture initiatives, while India and China discussed joint UNESCO nominations tied to Xuanzang’s legacy.