SIDS DOCK Presidency: Seychelles President Dr Patrick Herminie has been elected by acclamation to lead the SIDS DOCK Assembly’s 10th session, with the country set to hold the presidency through December 2027, reinforcing its push on sustainable energy and climate resilience. Regional Security & UN Reform: Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima told the UN General Assembly that Africa must be represented in global security decision-making, renewing calls for two permanent Security Council seats for Africa and more cooperation to counter cross-border threats. Mauritius-Air Seychelles Dispute: Mauritius refused landing clearance for an Air Seychelles flight from Israel, cancelling the service after “political and diplomatic considerations” were cited by the tour operator; passengers were left seeking alternative arrangements. Russian Naval Visit in Victoria: Seychelles Vice President Sebastien Pillay and Chief of Defence Forces Major General Michael Rosette visited the Russian Navy training ship Perekop during its first port call in Victoria. Cybersecurity Shock (Seychelles-linked): Seychelles-based crypto exchange Bitget says North Korea is very likely behind a major hack, with losses put at about $387.5m after unauthorized transfers from hot wallets. Beach Soccer Focus: Nigeria’s Sand Eagles stepped up preparations in Kaduna for CAF Beach Soccer AFCON qualifiers against Ghana, with the first leg set for 10 October and the return in Accra on 17 October.