Fault lines

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have officially left ECOWAS on January 29, 2025. However, ECOWAS will maintain diplomatic ties, recognise their passports, and allow trade under existing agreements while keeping communication channels open. How might this exit affect regional stability and cooperation in West Africa?  
 
Nigeria’s oil regulator will deny export permits to producers who don’t meet local supply quotas, including Dangote Refinery. Dangote has also reduced petrol prices from ₦950 to ₦890 per litre due to favourable global energy conditions, which is expected to lower the cost of goods and services. Will this petrol price reduction significantly impact Nigeria’s economy in the long run?  
  
Shell reported an oil spill in Ogale, near Port Harcourt, due to an overflow during operations. The spill has been contained, and an investigation will determine its cause and impact.  What steps can be taken to prevent future oil spills in the Niger Delta?