NATO: Denmark’s Jens Stotenberg stepped down as secretary-general of the Western military alliance today, handing over to former Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte as Nato continues to look to spread its influence eastwards.

Mr Rutte said his priorities would be to continue the alliance’s support for Ukraine in its war with Russia, increasing defence spending and strengthening partnerships that Nato has established with other countries around the world, notably in Asia and the Middle East.

NIGERIA: Police responded to peaceful protests against economic hardship today by firing tear gas.

The demonstrations, marking the 64th anniversary of independence from Britain, saw protesters wave placards and the national flag as they demanded better opportunities and jobs for young people.

Nigeria has some of the world’s highest poverty and hunger levels, despite being one of Africa’s top oil producers.

THAILAND: A bus carrying children and teachers caught fire in suburban Bangkok today, leaving more than 20 feared dead.

The bus was carrying 44 passengers from central Uthai Thani province on a school trip to Ayutthaya and Nonthaburi provinces, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungruengkit told reporters at the scene.

NEPAL: Rescuers continued searching today for bodies and people still missing after flooding and landslides killed more than 200 people at the weekend.

As the weather continued to improve, workers cleared the highways blocked by the landslides.

The disaster occurred in the run-up to the festival of Dasain, Nepal’s biggest, starting tomorrow, for which many people go home to celebrate with their families.