Gunmen abducted at least 20 people in two separate attacks in Nigeria's central and northern regions. On Sunday, attackers invaded the Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Kogi state. They fired shots, forcing worshippers to flee. The pastor, his wife, and several congregants were taken. The night before, in northern Sokoto state, kidnappers seized a bride preparing for a wedding, her bridesmaids, a baby, the baby's mother, and another woman. Schools and places of worship have been frequent targets in recent Nigerian kidnappings. Authorities have not confirmed who is behind these attacks. Many analysts suspect criminal gangs seeking ransom, but a presidential spokesman told BBC the kidnappings might be by jihadist groups. Kingsley Fanwo, Kogi's government spokesman, said security agencies are working to track down the attackers. Some 250 schoolchildren and 12 teachers remain missing after a recent major attack, though some hostages from other raids have been freed. These kidnappings raise deep concerns about the safety of rural communities and increase pressure on authorities to protect schools, churches, and remote areas. Although paying ransoms is outlawed, reports suggest payments may continue. Nigeria’s security problems gained global attention last month when US President Donald Trump threatened to send troops if killings of Christians continue. Nigerian officials say people of all faiths are victims and deny Christians are specifically targeted. For more updates on Nigeria's security issues, visit BBCAfrica.com.