DES MOINES, Iowa (BN24) – The Powerball jackpot has surged to an estimated $1.1 billion after Saturday night’s drawing ended without a grand prize winner, setting up another chance for players on Monday.
No one has matched all six numbers since May 31, fueling one of the largest jackpots in Powerball history. At its current total, the prize would rank as the fifth-biggest payout the game has ever offered.
The jackpot can be claimed in two ways: as annual payments spread over 30 years or as a one-time lump sum estimated at $498.4 million before taxes.
Saturday’s winning numbers were 3, 18, 22, 27, 33, with the Powerball 17. Despite millions of tickets sold nationwide, none matched the full combination.
The odds of winning remain daunting — just 1 in 292.2 million. Statistically, a person is far more likely to be struck by lightning than to take home the jackpot. Still, the growing prize has drawn in millions of hopeful players chasing what could be a life-changing fortune.
Powerball tickets cost $2 each and are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Drawings take place three times a week, on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday nights.
The jackpot’s rapid climb has captured widespread attention, with long lines forming at convenience stores and gas stations across the country. As anticipation builds for Monday’s drawing, officials are reminding players that while the prize is massive, the odds remain slim.
TIANJIN, China (BN24) — Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed a renewed chapter in bilateral relations Friday, declaring a mutual desire to be “partners, not rivals” after years of tension and a long-standing border conflict.
Meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in the northern port city of Tianjin, the two leaders emphasized stability, cooperation, and strategic foresight. It marked Modi’s first visit to China in seven years, and came at a time when global alignments are shifting, particularly in response to strained U.S. relations with both Asian powers.
Xi said the relationship between the world’s two most populous nations should be guided by “strategic height and long-term perspective,” adding that friendship is “the right choice” for both sides. Modi echoed that sentiment, declaring that an “atmosphere of peace and stability” now defined the India-China dynamic.
Their comments come amid growing friction between New Delhi and Washington, particularly over India’s continued purchases of Russian oil—a move that has drawn U.S. tariffs under President Joe Biden’s administration. At the same time, Russian President Vladimir Putin, who faces ongoing Western sanctions over the war in Ukraine, received a red-carpet welcome at the summit, which included more than 20 world leaders.
The SCO, founded in 2001 by China, Russia, and four Central Asian states, now counts 10 full members including Iran and Pakistan, along with 16 dialogue partners and observers. Though largely symbolic, the summit has become a significant platform for member states to express concerns over Western influence, particularly that of NATO and the United States.
Modi also announced that direct flights between India and China would resume—suspended since a deadly 2020 Himalayan border clash—though he did not provide a timeline. The gesture is seen as another step toward normalization between the two regional powers.
This year’s SCO summit, the largest since the organization’s inception, has transformed Tianjin into a hub of political and cultural activity. With billboards and banners plastered across the city, nightly light shows on downtown skyscrapers have drawn tens of thousands to the riverside, even as heavy security has brought parts of the city to a standstill.
Pedestrians have faced delays due to rolling roadblocks for official motorcades, and downtown transportation has been restricted. Authorities have urged the city’s 13 million residents to avoid unnecessary travel and rely on local shops for daily needs. Despite the inconveniences, public enthusiasm remains high as Tianjin plays host to what many here see as a historic meeting.
The gathering comes just days before China’s planned military parade in Beijing to commemorate 80 years since the end of World War II—a reminder of the enduring narratives that shape modern alliances and rivalries.
As U.S. ties with both India and China continue to strain, the Xi-Modi meeting may signal a recalibration of alliances in the region, positioning the two Asian giants on a more cooperative path amid global uncertainty.
Canelands, South Africa (BN24) – A 25-year-old pregnant woman was disarmed by local authorities on Saturday after she allegedly attempted to stab her 32-year-old boyfriend over accusations of infidelity in Canelands, KwaZulu-Natal.
According to Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), officers were dispatched following reports of a woman physically assaulting a man on Old Main Road. The incident occurred around 11:58 a.m. on August 30, 2025.
Upon arrival, a RUSA officer encountered an escalating domestic dispute in which the woman was actively attempting to stab the man. The officer intervened immediately, disembarking from the patrol vehicle to successfully disarm her before any serious injuries were inflicted.
The couple identified themselves to authorities, confirming that they were in a relationship. The woman allegedly arrived at her partner’s workplace to confront him about ongoing suspicions of unfaithfulness. The confrontation turned violent when she reportedly drew a kitchen knife and attempted to attack him. The man defended himself, leading to minor facial injuries sustained by the woman during the scuffle.
The woman told officers she was pregnant with the man’s child and that the confrontation stemmed from emotional distress tied to his alleged history of cheating. Despite the nature of the incident, both individuals refused medical or legal assistance and informed authorities that they intended to resolve the matter privately.
Local officials confirmed that no charges have been filed, though the event adds to ongoing concerns about domestic violence and mental health support in personal relationships across South Africa.
New York (BN24) – Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ahmed Ololade, professionally known as Asake, took centre stage in the United States on Sunday as he performed the ceremonial coin toss at a Major League Soccer fixture between the New York Red Bulls and Columbus. The high-profile moment saw the Grammy-nominated artist honoured as the official guest of the match, which ended in a goalless draw.
In photos and video clips shared by the artist on Instagram, Asake was seen standing confidently between match officials as he flipped the coin to determine kickoff and sides. The post, captioned “Asake music gives you wings,” also captured the moment one of his popular singles played over the stadium sound system, adding a cultural flair to the ceremony.
The Nigerian music star shook hands with both team captains and posed for photographs with officials before the game commenced. In another clip from the pitch-side experience, Asake showed off his football skills by juggling a ball in front of 36-year-old Cameroon international and professional striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting. The pair exchanged greetings and shared a brief conversation, further highlighting the crossover of sports and entertainment at the event.
Asake, who rose to fame with the 2020 breakout single “Lady,” has become a dominant force in African music. Signed to Olamide’s YBNL Nation in 2022, he has released three acclaimed albums—Mr Money With The Vibes (2022), Work of Art (2023), and Lungu Boy (2024). His growing international appeal earned him a 2025 Grammy nomination in the Best African Music Performance category, solidifying his status as a global ambassador for Afrobeats.
His appearance at the MLS fixture not only celebrated his musical influence but also reinforced the expanding presence of African artists on global stages, both on and off the field.
Brighton, England (BN24) – Brighton & Hove Albion claimed a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Manchester City at the Amex Stadium on Sunday, earning their first Premier League win of the season and delivering a blow to Pep Guardiola’s struggling side.
City appeared to be in control when Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the 33rd minute, clinically finishing a well-worked move. The goal was Haaland’s second of the campaign and briefly settled the nerves after last week’s 2-0 defeat to Tottenham.
But Brighton grew into the match in the second half, and their persistence paid off when veteran midfielder James Milner calmly converted a penalty in the 67th minute after a VAR-confirmed foul inside the box. The equaliser reignited the home crowd and shifted momentum firmly in the Seagulls’ favour.
Substitute Brajan Gruda sealed the win for Brighton with a composed finish in the 89th minute, latching onto a deflected pass and beating Ederson from close range to spark wild celebrations in the stands. The 20-year-old German’s late strike marked his first Premier League goal and capped a thrilling turnaround.
The win ends Brighton’s winless start to the campaign, having drawn and lost their opening two fixtures. The three points propel them from the bottom of the table to 10th place, with four points from three games.
Meanwhile, Manchester City, reigning Premier League champions, slumped to their second straight defeat. With just one win in three matches, Guardiola’s side now sits 12th in the table with three points—an unfamiliar early-season position for a team used to dominance.
The loss raises early concerns for City, who face mounting pressure to respond swiftly and rediscover their rhythm. Brighton, by contrast, will look to use the morale-boosting result as a springboard for their campaign.
The result sends a clear message that Brighton remain a force at home, while City must regroup ahead of a challenging stretch in the Premier League.
Liverpool, England (BN24) – Dominik Szoboszlai’s brilliant late free kick earned Liverpool a narrow 1-0 victory over Arsenal in a tense Premier League showdown at Anfield on Sunday, as Arne Slot’s side continued their unbeaten home run.
The Hungarian midfielder broke the deadlock in the 83rd minute with a moment of individual brilliance, curling a long-range effort past Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya to clinch all three points in a match that had been largely defined by tactical caution and missed opportunities.
The clash between two title contenders had promised fireworks but was instead marked by tight defensive organization and limited clear-cut chances. Liverpool had earlier thought they had taken the lead when Hugo Ekitike found the net, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside following a VAR review.
Arsenal were dealt an early blow when centre-back William Saliba was forced off with an apparent injury just four minutes into the match, compounding the absence of several key players including Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz. The Gunners struggled to threaten in the final third, with their injury-depleted squad unable to unlock a disciplined Liverpool back line.
Despite spells of possession, Mikel Arteta’s side failed to register a shot on target in the second half, and Szoboszlai’s late strike proved decisive as the home crowd erupted in celebration. The result pushes Liverpool further up the Premier League table and bolsters their early-season momentum under new manager Arne Slot.
For Arsenal, the loss marks a significant setback in their pursuit of consistency and puts added pressure on Arteta as he navigates a growing injury crisis. With squad depth being tested, the Gunners will need a swift response to stay within reach of the title race.
Liverpool’s resilience at Anfield continues to be a key factor in their campaign, while Arsenal leave Merseyside empty-handed and with more questions than answers heading into a demanding stretch of fixtures.
Buenos Aires, Argentina (BN24) – Lionel Scaloni has unveiled Argentina’s final 28-man squad for the last two matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup CONMEBOL qualifying campaign, with veterans and rising stars alike set to feature. Lionel Messi leads the group that will face Venezuela at home on September 4 before traveling to Ecuador on September 9 for their final qualifier.
Although Argentina has already secured top spot in South America’s 10-team qualifying standings, head coach Lionel Scaloni continues to treat the matches with full competitive seriousness, while also using the opportunity to assess new and fringe players. The two fixtures mark the conclusion of an 18-match marathon leading into the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The inclusion of 38-year-old Messi ensures a strong leadership presence as the squad aims to maintain its momentum. The Inter Miami forward is joined by one of Argentina’s most talked-about young prospects, 17-year-old Franco Mastantuono, who continues his rapid rise after an impressive run with River Plate. The teenager will be hoping to earn minutes in either of the two matches as Scaloni balances experience and youth in a low-pressure environment.
Among the notable absentees are midfielder Enzo Fernández, who misses out due to suspension following a red card, and Facundo Medina, ruled out with an ankle injury. Also missing is Ángel Correa, a surprising omission given his standout form for Tigres in Liga MX. Scaloni did not provide an explanation for Correa’s absence after he was initially named in the preliminary 31-man roster.
The final squad, reduced to 28 players, will be trimmed further to 23 on each matchday, in accordance with FIFA regulations. With qualification already assured, Scaloni is expected to rotate heavily between the two matches, allowing younger players to gain valuable international experience without sacrificing the team’s competitive edge.
The match against Venezuela will serve as Argentina’s final qualifier on home soil, potentially marking another special moment for fans hoping to see Messi play in front of a home crowd during a World Cup campaign. Five days later, the Albiceleste will wrap up qualification with a visit to high-altitude Quito to face Ecuador.
With depth, youth, and senior leadership in the squad, Scaloni’s choices reflect both continuity and transition as Argentina prepares to defend its world title in 2026.
IBEJU-LEKKI, Nigeria (BN24) — Tensions flared in Ibeju-Lekki on Friday as residents took to the streets in a mass protest over the killing of an unarmed man, allegedly by police officers, in the Onosa community the previous night. The incident has sparked renewed outrage over police conduct and raised questions about law enforcement’s use of force.
The tragic event occurred Thursday night, when the victim, identified only as an “unarmed citizen,” was fatally shot by police. Two other individuals were critically injured and are currently receiving medical treatment in a hospital.
By early Friday morning, hundreds of angry youths and community members gathered, blocking major roads and disrupting traffic in a show of solidarity and protest. Video footage from the scene shows crowds marching and chanting, while others piled tires across the roads. Police officers were seen attempting to control the situation, though tensions remained high. In one distressing video, the victim’s lifeless body was reportedly seen inside a car, adding to the emotional intensity of the demonstration.
“The protest was against the police in Ibeju-Lekki after the killing of an unarmed citizen. It happened at Onosa,” a local resident confirmed. Another eyewitness added, “Two people are in the hospital now, they were also injured in the incident.”
Protestors accused the police of using excessive force and demanded justice for the victim. The calls for accountability included demands that those responsible for the killing be identified and prosecuted.
In response, the Nigerian Police Force issued a statement urging calm. The statement confirmed that the injured individuals were receiving treatment at a hospital, and investigations into the incident had begun. “The officers involved are now in custody, and we are investigating the case thoroughly,” said Lagos State Police spokesperson.
By mid-afternoon, the situation had somewhat stabilized, with authorities reporting that normalcy had been restored in Ibeju-Lekki. However, the incident has only added to growing concerns over police brutality and the relationship between law enforcement and local communities.
PANAMA CITY (BN24) — A U.S. Navy guided missile cruiser, the USS Lake Erie, passed through the Panama Canal Friday night, entering the Caribbean Sea after traveling from the Pacific Ocean. The ship’s movement is part of a broader U.S. military strategy to increase its presence near Venezuela’s coastline amid ongoing political and military tensions.
The 567-foot vessel, which displaces 9,800 tons, entered one of the canal’s locks around 9:30 p.m. local time, AFP reporters observed. The ship had been docked for two days at the Port of Rodman near the Pacific entrance of the canal before continuing its journey east toward the Atlantic Ocean.
The U.S. government has framed this naval deployment as part of an anti-drug trafficking operation in the Caribbean, a region that is home to significant drug smuggling routes. The U.S. has accused Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of leading a drug cartel, offering a $50 million reward for information leading to his capture.
“I didn’t know the ship was going to pass… I was surprised,” said Alfredo Cedeno, a health technician who photographed the cruiser as it moved through the canal.
In response, Venezuela has mobilized 15,000 security personnel along its border with Colombia and increased patrols of its territorial waters with drones and naval ships. President Maduro has also claimed to have activated over four million militia members in what he called preparation for potential U.S. aggression.
While U.S. officials have emphasized that the operation is focused on countering drug trafficking, the timing of the USS Lake Erie’s movements has added to already heightened tensions between Washington and Caracas. The U.S. has made no public statements about military intervention in Venezuela, but experts suggest the presence of the warship serves as a demonstration of American naval power in the region.
The USS Lake Erie, based in San Diego, is one of several U.S. warships now positioned near Venezuela. This deployment is seen as an effort to reinforce Washington’s stance on drug trafficking and to test Venezuela’s military readiness in response to the U.S. presence.
ANNAPOLIS, MD (BN24) — A 37-year-old man has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of a promising Nigerian boxer, Isaiah Olugbemi, who was shot dead in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, last year. Nicholas Francis Giroux, of Odenton, received a life sentence plus an additional 20 years for the first-degree murder of the 27-year-old athlete on August 26, 2025.
Giroux, who pleaded guilty to the murder in February 2025, was convicted for the fatal shooting of Olugbemi, a rising star in amateur boxing. Olugbemi, a father with dreams of turning professional by the end of 2024, was killed on June 17, 2024, in a violent attack that shocked the local community and beyond.
“This was a cruel and senseless murder that took the life of someone with great promise,” said Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney Anne Colt Leitess after the sentencing. “The callousness and lack of remorse on the part of this defendant is really disturbing. He deserves this sentence. And to the family and friends of Mr. Olugbemi, I hope that today provides some sense of justice for this terrible ordeal.”
The tragic incident unfolded on the 500 block of Meadowmist Way in Odenton when Olugbemi was shot multiple times in what police described as a cold and calculated attack. Giroux shot Olugbemi several times until he collapsed, and then fired three more shots as the victim lay on the ground, according to police. The entire incident was captured on video.
Authorities said that about two weeks prior to the murder, Giroux had confronted Olugbemi and a neighbor while they were having a cookout and playing music in the backyard. Giroux had shown a firearm during the altercation, but police did not arrest him at the time because he did not point the weapon at anyone. However, following the murder, Giroux admitted to the crime during an interview with police on June 18, 2024.
Olugbemi, who trained at a local gym in Anne Arundel County, was an up-and-coming boxer with big dreams. He had won the National Golden Gloves Championship just a month before his death and secured another amateur win the week prior. Jim Hook, the owner of the gym where Olugbemi trained, described the boxer as a dedicated and hardworking individual with a bright future in the sport.
“The last text I sent to him was right after he won the fight, and I was like, ‘I’m so proud of you, you accomplished your dreams, man, congratulations,'” Hook said.
Olugbemi’s death has left a void in the local boxing community, as well as a deep sense of grief among his family and friends. The sentencing of Giroux brings a measure of closure, but the tragic loss of a young life with so much potential continues to resonate.
