A mass kidnapping in Nigeria has sparked international concern after reports emerged that around 600 people may have been abducted during an armed attack in Niger State.

The incident reportedly took place in a community where residents were targeted by armed attackers. Women, children and elderly people were among those believed to have been taken.

A video circulating online appears to show a large group of people gathered together after being abducted. Some residents have reportedly recognized relatives in the footage, adding to fears over the scale of the incident.

However, authorities have not independently confirmed that exactly 600 people were kidnapped. The figure comes from accounts by local residents and information connected to the video.

The attack has nevertheless triggered an urgent response from Nigerian authorities. President Bola Tinubu ordered security agencies to intensify efforts to locate and rescue those believed to have been taken.

Local officials also reported that people were killed during the attack, further deepening fears for those who remain missing.

For families in the affected community, the uncertainty has been devastating. Many are waiting for information about relatives who disappeared during the violence, while security forces work to determine where the captives may have been taken.

Mass kidnappings have become one of Nigeria’s most serious security challenges, particularly in areas where armed groups operate in remote communities.

The investigation and rescue operation remain ongoing, and officials are expected to provide more information as authorities work to establish the true number of people missing and locate those who may still be alive.