Child Protection & Maternal Health: Edo State Women Affairs took custody of an 11-year-old girl, Rejoice Godswill, after a viral abuse allegation in Benin City; the ministry ordered arrest of her mother and stepfather and says the child is receiving medical attention, psychosocial support, and shelter while investigations continue. HIV & Regional Health: Benin has been selected to host ICASA 2027 (Dec 5–9, 2027) in Cotonou, the first West African country to stage the continental AIDS and STIs conference, with a focus on HIV, STIs, TB, malaria, hepatitis and stronger health systems. Maternal/Newborn Care & UHC: NHIA congratulated Edo Specialist Hospital on its CEmONC accreditation, calling it a milestone for maternal and newborn care and progress toward Universal Health Coverage. Public Health Messaging: An Edo nurse urged patients to share complete, truthful health histories so doctors can diagnose and treat correctly, warning that withheld details can lead to wrong tests and higher costs. Health Workforce & Access: Nigeria’s education ministry says the federal government has invested over ₦1tn in tertiary education in two years to remove financial barriers and expand infrastructure. Digital Health & Safety: A Benin pharmacist warned residents to store over-the-counter medicines properly during the rainy season to avoid moisture damage that can reduce effectiveness. Mental Health & Care Gaps: Nollywood actress Chidera Adiele appealed for help over her brother’s seven-year struggle with drug addiction and mental illness after repeated psychiatric hospital admissions. Tobacco Control Capacity: Advocates from Benin and other countries trained in Lagos on monitoring and countering tobacco industry interference in public health policy. Cybersecurity for Health Systems: Benin will host the Cyber Africa Forum in November (Cotonou) to build “digital trust” and tackle cybercrime risks.