Today in Africa — May 11, 2026: Three African Films Head to Cannes, France Tries to Repair Ties With Africa

Nigerian Military Denies Civilian Deaths in Niger State Airstrikes

Nigeria’s military has denied reports that civilians were killed during recent drone strikes targeting suspected bandits in Niger State, saying the operation was based on intelligence and hit only militant hideouts. The strikes targeted several villages in Shiroro district after security forces said armed gangs were gathering to plan attacks, with the military claiming at least 70 suspected bandits were killed in one location alone.

Chad Airstrikes on Boko Haram Leave Nigerian Fishermen Missing 

Dozens of Nigerian fishermen are feared dead after Chad launched airstrikes on Boko Haram positions in the Lake Chad region following deadly attacks on Chadian military bases. Local fishing leaders say some fishermen may have been killed in the strikes, while others drowned trying to flee across the lake in overcrowded boats.

Jet Fuel Crisis Disrupts Flights Across Nigeria

Nigeria’s airlines are facing mounting disruption as soaring jet fuel prices and supply shortages trigger flight delays, route cuts, and growing operational strain. Aviation groups warn that the crisis is also pushing crews beyond planned duty hours, raising concerns about fatigue and flight safety.

UN Warns Sudan War Is Entering a ‘Deadlier Phase’

The United Nations human rights chief has warned that escalating violence and the growing use of armed drones in Sudan could push the war into an even more dangerous phase. According to UN data, drone strikes accounted for 80% of civilian conflict deaths between January and April, with at least 880 people killed.

British Hantavirus Patient in South Africa Showing Signs of Recovery

A British man hospitalized in Johannesburg after contracting hantavirus aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius is gradually improving, according to South Africa’s health ministry. The outbreak linked to the ship has killed three people so far, including a Dutch couple and a German passenger.

Libyan Coast Guard-Linked Vessels Open Fire Near Migrant Rescue Ship

A German humanitarian group says vessels linked to Libya’s coast guard fired live ammunition near one of its rescue ships after it saved around 90 migrants in the Mediterranean. The Sea-Watch 5 later left the area under escort and is heading to Italy, while rights groups renewed criticism of Europe’s migration cooperation with Libya.

Dangote Targets $50 Billion Valuation Ahead of Refinery Listing

Africa’s wealthiest man, Aliko Dangote, is reportedly seeking a $50 billion valuation for his refinery business ahead of a planned stock market listing in Nigeria later this year. The offering could involve the sale of up to 10% of the company, potentially making it one of the biggest listings in Nigerian market history.

Egyptian Billionaire Nassef Sawiris Eyes French Football Club Acquisition

Egyptian billionaire Nassef Sawiris and Aston Villa co-owner Wes Edens are reportedly in talks to acquire a majority stake in French second-division club FC Annecy. The move would expand their growing football network, which already includes clubs in Spain and Japan.

Kemi Seba Fights Deportation in South African Court

Pan-African activist Kemi Seba told a South African court he fears he could be killed if deported to Benin as he seeks bail after being arrested for overstaying his visa. Seba, who is wanted in Benin over allegations tied to a failed coup plot, says his case should be treated as an asylum matter rather than a simple immigration violation.

One Killed as Somali Security Forces Break Up Opposition Protest

Somali security forces opened fire on an opposition-led protest in Mogadishu yesterday, Sunday, May 10, leaving one person dead and another injured, according to opposition figures and witnesses. The confrontation comes just days before President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s term expires and ahead of planned elections in June.

Moroccan Singer Saad Lamjarred Faces New Rape Trial in France

Moroccan singer Saad Lamjarred has gone on trial in southern France over allegations that he raped a woman in a Saint-Tropez hotel room in 2018. Lamjarred denies the charges, calling the encounter consensual, while the closed-door trial adds to multiple past sexual assault accusations against the artist.

Madagascar Sets Timeline for Referendum and Presidential Vote

Madagascar’s electoral commission says a constitutional referendum will take place in June 2027, followed by presidential elections in October, as the country navigates a tense political transition. The roadmap follows last year’s upheaval that removed President Andry Rajoelina after protests over worsening living conditions.