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Number of Children Abducted in Nigerian School Attack Rises to More Than 300-AP

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The number of children abducted during the armed attack on St. Mary’s School in north-central Nigeria has risen to more than 300, the Christian Association of Nigeria said Saturday, significantly increasing an earlier total released after the incident.

Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, chairman of the Niger state chapter of CAN, said that 303 schoolchildren and 12 teachers were taken when gunmen raided the Catholic boarding school in Papiri community. The update came after what he described as a verification process and final census conducted during his visit on Friday. He said 88 of the abducted students were captured as they attempted to flee, and that the children taken range in age from 10 to 18 and include both boys and girls.

The mass abduction occurred four days after 25 schoolchildren were seized in a similar attack in neighboring Kebbi state’s Maga town, roughly 170 kilometers away. No group has claimed responsibility for either assault, but authorities say tactical units and local hunters have been deployed in hopes of locating and rescuing the captives.

Yohanna rejected a claim by the Niger state government that the school had reopened despite an earlier directive ordering institutions in the area to close temporarily due to heightened security threats. He said there was no evidence the school received such an instruction before the attack and described the government’s assertion as an attempt to shift blame. He urged families to remain calm and continue praying for the students’ safe return.

School kidnappings have become a defining feature of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, with armed gangs increasingly targeting educational institutions to draw attention and secure ransom payments. UNICEF reported last year that only 37% of schools across 10 conflict-affected states have any form of early warning system to detect threats.

The latest abductions come against the backdrop of comments by U.S. President Donald Trump alleging targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria, a claim the government has denied. Analysts note that both Christians and Muslims are frequently targeted in the northern and central regions where armed groups operate. The school attack earlier in the week in Kebbi state took place in a predominantly Muslim town.

The assault on St. Mary’s School coincided with a visit by Nigerian National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to the United States, where he met Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Friday as Nigeria’s government faces renewed pressure to curb mass kidnappings.

Nigerian Government Moves Nnamdi Kanu From DSS Custody in Abuja to Sokoto Prison

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ABUJA (BN24)— The Nigerian government has transferred Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), from the Department of State Services (DSS) detention facility in Abuja to a correctional centre in Sokoto State, according to his lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor. The announcement came on Friday, one day after Kanu was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment on terrorism charges by the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Ejimakor disclosed the development in a post on X, saying Kanu was moved “so far away from his lawyers, family, loved ones, and well-wishers.” His statement sparked immediate reaction from supporters and human rights observers concerned about the distance and potential impact on legal access as the defence prepares for an appeal.

Kanu’s legal team has sharply condemned Thursday’s ruling delivered by Justice James Omotosho, which found the IPOB leader guilty on terrorism-related counts. The defence described the decision as “a travesty of justice” and said it would challenge the verdict at the Court of Appeal.

Speaking to journalists after the judgment, Ejimakor called the ruling “a dark day in Nigeria’s judicial history,” arguing that Kanu was convicted solely for statements he made rather than any violent actions. “Today is the only day I have witnessed a man being convicted for just what he said from his mouth, not what he did with his own hands,” he said.

He insisted that the prosecution failed to present evidence linking Kanu’s broadcasts to acts of violence or terrorism. “The verdict is not consistent with the evidence laid before the court. The sentence is overbroad, cruel, and unusual,” he said, questioning how a broadcast from an unspecified location could form the basis for a terrorism conviction.

Ejimakor argued that Kanu’s campaign for self-determination was not a crime under Nigerian or international law. “Mazi Nnamdi Kanu made broadcasts, and so what? You convict him for terrorism for mere words in the Federal Republic of Nigeria. What kind of precedent is being laid?” he said.

The legal team said it would proceed immediately to the Court of Appeal. “We are going to approach the justices there to check out what happened here today,” Ejimakor said. “If the Court of Appeal disagrees with us, we will head to the Supreme Court. By God Almighty, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not going to stand convicted. It is going to get overturned.”

Another defence lawyer, Maxwell Okpara, also criticized the ruling, claiming it was influenced by emotion rather than grounded in legal reasoning. He called for calm in the South-East, urging supporters to refrain from violence as the legal process continues. Okpara expressed confidence that higher courts would correct what he described as a grave miscarriage of justice.

Kanu’s transfer to Sokoto marks a new chapter in a case that has drawn international attention, heightened tensions in the South-East, and intensified debate over free expression, national security, and the rights of political dissidents in Nigeria.

Roger Federer to Be Inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2025

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NEWPORT, Rhode Island (BN24) — Roger Federer, one of the most iconic figures in tennis history, is set to be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2025, solidifying his place among the sport’s all-time greats. The 44-year-old Swiss tennis star, who retired from professional tennis in 2022, will become the first member of the “Big Three,” the legendary trio of Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal, to be honored with this prestigious accolade.

Federer’s induction into the Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to his unparalleled career, one marked by a combination of on-court brilliance, elegance, and unmatched consistency. Over the course of his career, Federer accumulated 103 ATP titles, a figure that ranks second only to Jimmy Connors’ record of 109. His longevity, skill, and success across all surfaces helped him remain one of the sport’s most revered athletes for more than two decades.

Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam singles titles was the highest of any male player at the time of his retirement, a benchmark that was later surpassed by his rivals Djokovic (24) and Nadal (22). Nevertheless, Federer’s achievements, including becoming the first man in history to reach 20 Grand Slam singles titles, solidified his status as one of the most decorated and admired players in tennis history.

As part of his induction, Federer will join the ranks of other tennis legends in Newport, Rhode Island, during the Hall of Fame induction weekend scheduled for August 27-29, 2025. The prestigious event, which takes place annually in the charming seaside town, will celebrate Federer’s remarkable career and lasting influence on the sport. His induction ceremony will feature a gathering of tennis greats, fans, and peers who have followed his illustrious journey from his early days as a promising junior to his status as a global ambassador for the sport.

Upon hearing the news of his induction, Federer shared his gratitude and excitement. “It’s a tremendous honor to be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame and to stand alongside so many of the game’s great champions,” Federer said in a statement. “Throughout my career, I’ve always valued the history of tennis and the example set by those who came before me. To be recognized in this way by the sport and by my peers is deeply humbling. I look forward to visiting Newport next August to celebrate this special moment with the tennis community.”

Federer was informed of his induction during a video call with current Hall of Fame members at Swiss Tennis, the organization where he first developed his love for the game in his youth. The announcement came as a moment of reflection for Federer, who throughout his career maintained a strong connection to the rich history of tennis. His presence among the Hall of Fame inductees will add a new chapter to that history, one that includes his unforgettable moments on the court and his enduring legacy as an ambassador for the sport.

Federer’s career is defined by more than just his impressive title count. He is also one of only eight men in tennis history to have completed a Career Grand Slam, having won each of the sport’s four major titles, the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open, at least once. His versatility and ability to adapt his game to all surfaces set him apart, making him one of the most complete players the sport has ever seen. Federer’s victory at Wimbledon in 2009, where he claimed his sixth title at the All England Club, remains one of the most iconic moments in tennis history, as it saw him surpass Pete Sampras’ record of Wimbledon wins and further solidify his legacy.

In addition to his on-court success, Federer is known for his poise, sportsmanship, and commitment to the growth of tennis around the world. His influence extends far beyond his accomplishments in the ATP rankings; he is also widely regarded as one of the sport’s most respected and beloved figures. Federer’s graciousness and respect for his competitors, coupled with his engaging personality, have earned him a place in the hearts of tennis fans across the globe.

Federer’s Hall of Fame induction comes at a time when the sport is witnessing a generational shift. While the “Big Three” Federer, Djokovic, and Nadal continue to dominate headlines, Federer’s legacy as the elder statesman of the trio will forever be cemented by his induction into the Hall of Fame. Djokovic and Nadal, both of whom have broken records in recent years, will follow in Federer’s footsteps in due time, but Federer remains the first to be enshrined in the Hall of Fame, marking a historic moment for tennis fans.

His induction is expected to draw a large international crowd to Newport next summer, where fans will gather to honor Federer’s contributions to the game. The ceremony will serve as both a celebration of his past achievements and a recognition of his continued impact on the sport, even after he retires from competitive play.

As the world prepares to honor one of tennis’ greatest champions, the sport will reflect on Federer’s exceptional career, his unrelenting pursuit of excellence, and his lasting influence on the future of tennis. For Federer, this next chapter is yet another milestone in a journey that continues to inspire players and fans alike.

Indian Fighter Jet Pilot Killed in Crash During Dubai Airshow Performance

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DUBAI, UAE (BN24) — A tragic accident at the Dubai Airshow 2025 resulted in the death of an Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot after his fighter jet crashed during a scheduled aerial performance. The crash occurred at approximately 14:10 local time (10:10 GMT) on the final day of the event, which is one of the world’s most high-profile aviation exhibitions. The pilot, flying a Tejas jet developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), was executing a maneuver as part of a dynamic airshow display when the aircraft went down.

According to a statement from the Indian Air Force, the pilot, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, died at the scene. The IAF expressed profound grief, offering condolences to the pilot’s family and colleagues. “The Indian Air Force deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief,” the IAF’s statement read. The Air Force also confirmed that a court of inquiry is being constituted to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Eyewitnesses and video footage from the scene showed black smoke rising from the crash site, located on the grounds of Al Maktoum International Airport, where the Dubai Airshow has been taking place since Monday. Firefighters and emergency services, responding quickly to the incident, were seen working at the scene to extinguish flames and secure the area. Dubai’s Media Office, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Defence, stated that emergency response teams were on-site and actively managing the situation in a timely and efficient manner.

India’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, expressed his deepest condolences on behalf of the Indian military. “All ranks of the Indian Army deeply regret the incident and stand firmly with the pilot’s bereaved family,” Gen. Chauhan said in a public statement. The Indian military has called the pilot a “brave and skilled officer” who was an asset to the country’s defense forces.

The Dubai Airshow, which has drawn more than 148,000 attendees, including aerospace professionals and exhibitors from over 1,500 companies, was set to close on the day of the tragic accident. The event, which showcases the latest in military and civilian aviation technology, has become a major platform for global aviation and defense industry leaders to display their products, with many nations showcasing their aircraft and military capabilities.

The crash occurred during the final day of the airshow, casting a somber shadow over the otherwise high-energy event. The Dubai Airshow has long been a landmark event for aviation enthusiasts and industry professionals, offering a rare opportunity to witness cutting-edge aerial demonstrations. This year’s edition had already attracted significant international attention, with a range of military demonstrations, including several flyovers by various fighter jets.

The accident also highlights concerns regarding safety during live demonstrations, as the Dubai Airshow is known for its thrilling aerobatic displays, which sometimes involve complex maneuvers performed by military aircraft like the Tejas, a light combat aircraft developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. The Tejas has been a significant milestone for India’s defense industry, and its involvement in international airshows has served as a point of national pride.

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, and officials from both the UAE Ministry of Defence and the Indian Air Force have vowed to conduct a thorough inquiry. In addition to the technical investigation, the Indian Air Force has committed to providing all necessary support to the pilot’s family during this difficult time.

This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the risks that come with high-performance aviation displays, and it raises important questions about the safety protocols in place during such events. As the investigation continues, both the aviation community and the public are awaiting further details on the crash.

The Dubai Airshow will go down in history not only for its exhibition of technological advancements in aviation but also for the sorrowful loss of a talented and courageous pilot. As officials work to determine the cause of the crash, many are left reflecting on the pilot’s dedication to his craft and the sacrifice made in the pursuit of excellence in aviation.

South Africa Declares Gender Violence a National Disaster Amid Nationwide Protests

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JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA (BN24) — South Africa has officially declared gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide a national disaster after widespread protests and an online campaign aimed at drawing attention to the country’s deepening crisis. This declaration follows nationwide demonstrations, including a coordinated “lie down” protest held on Friday, where women in major cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, along with other locations, lay down for 15 minutes at noon to honor the 15 women killed every day in South Africa.

The protests, led by the activist group Women for Change, culminated in a powerful national statement. Demonstrators wore black in a sign of both mourning and resistance. The campaign was amplified online, where celebrities and citizens changed their social media profiles to purple, a color symbolic of awareness against gender-based violence. A petition urging government action has garnered over a million signatures.

The national disaster declaration was made after extensive pressure from civil organizations and activists. Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa confirmed that, following a thorough review, the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) had reclassified GBV and femicide as a national disaster, acknowledging the “persistent and immediate life-safety risks posed by ongoing acts of violence.”

Before the announcement, the South African government had resisted this move, citing legal requirements that activists’ calls had not met. However, in light of the growing outcry and an evaluation of updated reports from state bodies and civil organizations, the government has now taken this step.

South Africa’s levels of gender-based violence are among the highest globally. According to UN Women, the femicide rate in the country is five times higher than the global average. Women in South Africa face daily threats, and the situation has worsened with the COVID-19 pandemic, as reports of domestic violence, sexual assault, and femicide surged during lockdowns.

The protests on Friday were part of the G20 Women’s Shutdown movement organized by Women for Change. The event sought to raise awareness about the horrific scale of violence against women in South Africa, with many activists calling for more than just symbolic gestures but real, effective action from the government. “We have written history together,” Women for Change said in a statement on its social media, emphasizing that the country’s persistence in confronting this issue has finally been recognized.

“This is a victory, but the battle is far from over,” said Women for Change spokesperson Cameron Kasambala. She stressed that despite past efforts—such as the 2019 declaration of GBV and femicide as a national crisis lack of implementation and transparency in government actions had long hindered real change.

The government’s new classification as a national disaster will allow various departments to allocate their resources more effectively to combat the crisis. Minister Hlabisa confirmed that this shift would enable the state to implement every possible measure to reduce the scourge of violence against women. If these efforts do not yield tangible results, the government has the option of declaring a national state of disaster, granting even more urgent powers for intervention.

While the declaration is seen as a step forward, many women and activists argue that the government’s response has been too slow. The protest has gained significant traction not only in South Africa but across the region, with allies in Eswatini, Kenya, and Namibia joining the movement in solidarity.

Some women have taken matters into their own hands due to frustration with state inaction. Lynette Oxeley, the founder of Girls on Fire, a self-defense initiative aimed at helping women protect themselves through gun ownership, noted the rising need for personal safety in light of the government’s failure to protect women. Oxeley, whose organization trains women to handle firearms legally, emphasized that her group’s approach is not about glorifying violence but empowering women to “fight back” against the pervasive threat of GBV.

Prudence, a member of Girls on Fire, shared her painful experience with sexual violence. After being raped in 2022, she faced an uphill battle for justice, with her case eventually dropped due to a lost rape kit. “This isn’t just a police problem, it’s a national problem,” she said, expressing her anger at the system’s failure to bring perpetrators to justice.

The National Disaster classification is expected to mobilize greater resources and attention to the problem of gender violence. However, for many South African women, including Girls on Fire members, it remains to be seen if the government’s newfound commitment will result in meaningful change. The country has long faced challenges in addressing gender violence, from insufficient law enforcement to widespread social acceptance of abuse.

As the national disaster declaration makes its way through the bureaucratic system, many activists have vowed to continue pushing for concrete action, including legislative reform, better law enforcement, and more significant resources for survivors of gender-based violence. The “purple movement,” with its wide reach across social media platforms, continues to grow as a testament to the public’s demand for an end to the daily violence faced by women in South Africa.

In the coming days, all eyes will be on the government’s next steps and whether they can turn this declaration into effective policy changes that truly address the crisis at hand.

Pope Leo XIV: Christians and Muslims ‘Slaughtered’ in Nigeria Amid Growing Violence

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CASTEL GANDOLFO, ITALY (BN24) — Pope Leo XIV has condemned the ongoing violence in Nigeria, stating that both Christians and Muslims have been “slaughtered” as a result of extremist activities, economic struggles, and land disputes. The remarks came during a viral interview recorded on Tuesday at the Pope’s summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, and were published on Friday by the Catholic News Agency.

In the interview, the Pope was asked about the safety of Christians in Nigeria, particularly following rising international concerns over the persecution of religious groups in the country. “I think in Nigeria, in certain areas, there is certainly a danger for Christians, but for all people. Christians and Muslims have been slaughtered,” Pope Leo XIV said, acknowledging the widespread nature of the violence affecting all religious communities.

The Pope went on to highlight the complex factors driving the violence, which he attributed to both terrorism and socioeconomic issues. “There’s a question of terrorism. There’s a question that has to do a lot with economics, if you will, and control of the lands that they have,” he explained, pointing out that the violence is not solely based on religious differences but is also deeply tied to struggles over resources and power.

Pope Leo XIV’s comments came just weeks after U.S. President Donald Trump made a similar claim, alleging a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria due to ongoing attacks on Christian communities by extremist groups. President Trump’s statements were met with mixed reactions, including a strong rebuttal from the Nigerian government, which rejected the notion of religious genocide in the country. However, the Pope’s remarks reinforce growing international concern about the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria, where attacks on both Christian and Muslim communities have become increasingly frequent.

The Pope also urged the Nigerian government to take stronger and more decisive action to protect its citizens from the escalating violence. “Unfortunately, many Christians have died, and I think it’s important to seek a way for the government, with all peoples, to promote authentic religious freedom,” Pope Leo XIV emphasized. His call for religious freedom echoes the concerns of various international religious and human rights organizations that have highlighted the inability of Nigerian authorities to prevent attacks on both Christian and Muslim communities.

The situation in Nigeria has been further complicated by long-standing tensions between religious and ethnic groups, especially in the northern and central regions. While Islamist militant groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have been responsible for much of the violence targeting Christians, Muslim communities have also suffered from attacks by rival factions, including bandits and extremist groups. In addition to religious terrorism, economic struggles and disputes over land resources have exacerbated the violence, particularly in rural areas where control of farmland and grazing rights is a significant source of tension.

The Pope’s comments reflect a broader concern within the international community about the safety and well-being of religious minorities in Nigeria, a country that is roughly split between a Muslim-majority north and a Christian-majority south. The ongoing violence, fueled by both terrorism and resource conflicts, has led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people and has significantly impacted the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

Pope Leo XIV’s call for a “stronger” response from the Nigerian government is likely to intensify pressure on the country’s leaders to address the root causes of the violence and to ensure that the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religion, are protected. The Nigerian government has been under increasing scrutiny for its handling of security issues, particularly as the threat of terrorism and banditry continues to spread throughout the country.

In the wake of the Pope’s remarks, religious leaders, human rights advocates, and international organizations have renewed their calls for greater efforts to combat the violence in Nigeria, calling for both improved security measures and a more comprehensive approach to addressing the underlying causes of religious and ethnic conflict.

As Nigeria grapples with its security challenges, the Pope’s comments serve as a poignant reminder of the need for a unified effort to safeguard the lives and freedoms of all Nigerians, regardless of their faith or background. The Pope’s advocacy for religious freedom and peace in Nigeria comes at a critical moment as the country continues to face unprecedented levels of violence and unrest.

Miss Mexico Is Crowned Miss Universe at Pageant Where She Stood Up to Host’s Bullying

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Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch, center, is celebrated by other contesters after winning the 2025 Miss Universe pageant in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Nov. 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

BANGKOK (BN24)— Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico claimed the Miss Universe 2025 crown on Friday, closing a tumultuous week in Bangkok that propelled the 25-year-old contestant to the center of an international conversation on dignity, respect, and women’s voices. Her victory unfolded against the backdrop of one of the pageant’s most contentious editions in recent memory, shaped by a public confrontation with a host that set off a walkout, a show of solidarity among participants, and a dramatic apology that echoed far beyond the venue.

Bosch’s win prompted a roaring celebration inside the packed auditorium, where ecstatic supporters waved Mexican flags after a competition marked by tension and scrutiny. The 74th edition of the Miss Universe pageant, already known for spectacle, became the stage for a broader dispute about the treatment of contestants after Bosch was sharply reprimanded during a livestreamed sashing ceremony on Nov. 4.

The controversy began when Thai national director Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly chastised Bosch, accusing her of ignoring his instructions for participating in local promotional events. As she attempted to respond, defending her actions, Nawat called security. The exchange, streamed live to audiences worldwide, became a flashpoint. Bosch left the room moments later, prompting several contestants including Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, to walk out in solidarity.

“What your director did is not respectful: He called me dumb,” Bosch told Thai reporters afterward. “If it takes away your dignity, you need to go.” Nawat denied the remark, but the damage had been done. The incident sparked widespread criticism, not only within the pageant community but across international media and online forums.

The Miss Universe Organization intervened quickly. Its president, Mexican businessman Raúl Rocha Cantú, issued a statement condemning Nawat’s behavior as “public aggression” and “serious abuse,” underscoring the gravity with which the organization took the livestreamed confrontation.

Even Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, added her voice from Mexico City, applauding Bosch for standing firm. Sheinbaum said she wanted to recognize Bosch for speaking “in a dignified way,” adding that women “look more beautiful when we raise our voice and participate,” pushing back against past stereotypes that urged women to remain silent.

The fallout culminated in an emotional and visibly conflicted apology from Nawat, who addressed contestants while appearing alternately tearful and defensive. “If anyone was affected and not comfortable, it happened. I am so sorry,” he said, attempting to move past the incident before asking, “It’s passed. OK? Are you happy?”

Bosch’s selection as Miss Universe added another layer of significance to the controversy. Moments after her crowning, she reflected on the week’s turmoil and her aspirations for the role. She said she hoped to be remembered as “a person who changed a little bit the prototype of what is a Miss Universe and a real person that gives the heart.” She praised the pageant as “a platform that is strong because they have the space that women are searching to have a voice,” framing her win as part of a broader movement for empowered representation.

Behind the crown is a résumé steeped in creativity and advocacy. Bosch studied fashion in Mexico and Italy, focusing on sustainable design using discarded materials. Her biography highlights her volunteer work with children in hospitals, her efforts to promote environmental awareness, and her involvement in supporting migrants and mental health causes, commitments that resonated with fans during the high-profile controversy.

The pageant itself faced additional complications this year. Reports surfaced that two judges resigned, with one alleging potential rigging, though organizers firmly denied any impropriety. Meanwhile, Thai authorities investigated accusations that online casinos had been illicitly promoted as part of the event’s publicity campaign. While none of these issues halted the competition, they contributed to the sense of a beleaguered pageant navigating a cascade of crises.

Less serious mishaps also occurred, including a moment that went viral when Miss Universe Jamaica, Gabrielle Henry, slipped off the stage during the evening gown competition. She was not seriously injured, returning later to acknowledge the fall with good humor.

For a pageant no stranger to global controversy, from geopolitical criticism to judging disputes, the 2025 edition stood apart for how a single confrontation reshaped the narrative. What began as a tense exchange during a routine ceremony became the defining moment of the event, elevating Bosch not only as a contestant but as a symbol of defiance against public humiliation.

As Bosch wore the crown for the first time, she stood not just as Miss Universe 2025 but as the face of a turbulent week that sparked discussions about respect, agency, and the evolving identity of the modern beauty queen.

 Gunmen Abduct More Than 200 Schoolchildren and 12 Teachers in Attack on Nigerian Catholic School

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Gunmen stormed a Catholic boarding school in western Nigeria early Friday and abducted more than 200 schoolchildren along with 12 teachers, according to the Christian Association of Nigeria, marking one of the largest mass kidnappings in the country in recent years.

The attack unfolded at St. Mary’s School in the Papiri community of Agwara local government area. Daniel Atori, spokesperson for the Niger state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, said 215 pupils and students were taken, in addition to a dozen staff members. He said he met with distressed parents at the school on Friday and vowed that the organization would work to secure the children’s safe return.

The Niger State Police Command said the abductions took place in the early morning hours and confirmed that military and security personnel have been deployed to the area. Authorities described St. Mary’s as a secondary school but satellite imagery shows a large compound with more than 50 classroom and dormitory structures connected to an adjoining primary school along a main road between Yelwa and Mokwa.

Families in the community say children as young as 7 were among those taken. Dauda Chekula, 62, said four of his grandchildren were abducted and that he has not received any information about their whereabouts. He said children who escaped ran in different directions and that residents believe the attackers are moving the remaining captives deeper into the bush.

A statement from the secretary to the Niger state government confirmed the abduction occurred despite earlier intelligence warnings of increased threats. Officials criticized St. Mary’s for reopening without notifying the state government or seeking authorization and said that decision exposed students and staff “to avoidable risk.”

Local residents said the school had only informal community security and no permanent police or military presence at the time of the attack. The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora said a security staffer at the school was “badly shot” during the assault.

The attack comes amid a wave of abductions targeting schools, churches and travelers across northern and central Nigeria. Authorities ordered the immediate closure of 47 federal unity colleges located in conflict-affected regions, according to a directive issued by the Federal Ministry of Education. The closures are intended to prevent additional mass kidnappings.

Friday’s abductions occurred just days after gunmen seized 25 schoolgirls from a high school in the neighboring Kebbi state. One girl escaped, but the rest remain missing. In another attack Monday in Kwara state, gunmen killed two worshippers at a church and abducted 38 others. Church officials said kidnappers are demanding 100 million naira, or about $69,000, per victim.

President Bola Tinubu canceled a planned trip to the Group of 20 summit in South Africa following the surge in violence. Vice President Kashim Shettima will represent him instead. During a visit to Kebbi state, Shettima promised that authorities would use “every instrument of the state” to rescue the abducted schoolgirls and ensure the perpetrators face justice.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks in Niger and Kebbi states. Analysts say heavily armed gangs—many of them former herders who turned to kidnapping after years of clashes with farming communities—routinely target schools and isolated villages for ransom. The trend has intensified since Boko Haram militants abducted 276 schoolgirls in Chibok more than a decade ago, an incident that drew global outrage. More than 1,500 students have been kidnapped across the region since then.

While the government has rejected allegations from U.S. President Donald Trump that Christians are being specifically persecuted in Nigeria, analysts note that victims include both Christians and Muslims in northern regions where armed groups operate with little resistance.

Residents say a lack of prosecutions and corruption that weakens the security forces have allowed mass kidnappings to flourish. Families say they are often left to negotiate ransoms themselves. Lagos influencer Eze Gloria Chidinma, known as “Riaz Kitchen,” said her sister escaped the attack at St. Mary’s by climbing a fence. She said her mother and brother were kidnapped last year and that authorities offered little assistance.

“My message to the authorities is to think about the people,” she said. “Your job is to protect lives and properties. People’s lives should matter to you.”

Yohanna Buru, a pastor who leads the Peace Revival And Reconciliation Foundation, urged the government to increase protection for schools in high-risk regions. He said rampant kidnappings reflect a broader failure to address insecurity.

“If the government was doing enough, then rampant kidnappings all over the country would not have happened,” Buru said. “It’s as if they don’t care about the future of our children.”

5 Killed and Hundreds Injured After 5.5 Earthquake Strikes Bangladesh

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At least five people, including a child, were killed and more than 450 others injured Friday after a 5.5 magnitude earthquake rattled Bangladesh, sending residents fleeing into the streets and causing structural collapses across several districts.

The quake struck near the Narsingdi district, roughly 30 kilometers from the capital, Dhaka. Buildings shook throughout the city, and makeshift structures gave way as residents rushed out of homes, offices and dormitories. At Dhaka University, at least 10 students were hurt in a stampede as they tried to escape shaking buildings.

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, an environmental adviser to the government, said the country had not experienced an earthquake of similar strength in the past five years. Authorities confirmed that three of the deaths occurred in Dhaka’s Armanitola neighborhood after a railing and debris fell from a five-story building, according to deputy police commissioner Mallik Ahsan Uddin Sami.

Nitai Chandra De Sarkar, director of the monitoring division for the disaster management department, said 461 injuries had been reported nationwide. Gazipur district, north of the capital, accounted for 252 of those injuries. Sarkar said authorities are focused on assessing casualties and damage and have not yet encountered widespread rescue operations involving collapsed structures.

Residents described intense shaking that jolted buildings throughout Dhaka. Bengali Sadman Sakib told Reuters he had never felt a tremor like it in his 30 years and said office furniture rattled before workers ran into the street. A student named Abdullah said he woke to his “whole building shaking.”

Tremors were also felt across eastern Indian states bordering Bangladesh, though no major damage was reported there.

The earthquake briefly halted Ireland’s second cricket test match in Bangladesh. Coaches and players stepped away to the boundary, while spectators sought shelter in the stands. Play stopped for about three minutes before resuming. Ireland head coach Heinrich Malan said the shaking brought back memories of earthquakes he experienced in New Zealand and added that the team was thinking of those affected in Bangladesh as assessments continued.

Robbers Overpower Guard and Steal Dozens of Ancient Gold Coins From Swiss Museum

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Swiss authorities continued searching Friday for two robbers who attacked a security guard at a Roman-era museum in Lausanne, shattered a display case and fled with dozens of ancient gold coins in a swift and targeted heist.

Police said the pair bought entry tickets and waited until the museum had nearly emptied shortly before closing time Tuesday. Investigators said the suspects assaulted and restrained the guard before smashing the display case containing the coins. Officials have not disclosed the monetary value of the stolen pieces but emphasized that the items hold significant archaeological importance.

The robbery occurred as global gold prices remain elevated, even after easing from recent highs, and follows a high-profile theft at the Louvre in Paris that raised concerns about museum security across Europe.

Authorities said the museum employee, a 64-year-old Swiss national, was questioned by investigators and was not injured during the incident. No visitors or additional staff were present at the time of the theft.

State prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation. Lausanne city officials filed a legal complaint over the damage to the museum, and the regional government, which owns the gold coins, announced plans to submit a separate criminal complaint as the search for the suspects continues.

AP

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