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US missionary regains freedom after nine months of captivity in Niger
A Christian missionary Kevin Rideout from the United States has regained freedom after nine months of captivity in the Republic of Niger.
This was disclosed on Friday by his organization, the Charlotte-based SIM International, who said Rideout would soon be reunited with his family.
The organization’s Director Phil Bauman told newsmen in a statement: “We are grateful to confirm that our good friend and brother in Christ, Kevin Rideout, has been released after over nine months in captivity.
“Kevin is in good health in the care of US officials.”
Rideout had been in captivity since his abduction on October 21, 2025, by three unidentified men.
The abductors kidnapped him from outside his home in the capital city of Niamey before fleeing towards the western Tillaberi region, active with Islamist militant groups.
The US Embassy in Niger heightened its security protocols following the incident, warning of increased kidnapping threats across the country.
While details of his release remains undisclosed, reports say Rideout is currently in FBI custody.
Rideout has worked as a Christian missionary for 19 years and served as a pilot for SIM International, which operates in more than 70 countries.
Militant groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and Islamic State forces have continued to generate security concerns in Niger.
His release comes amid increasing security concerns across the country and other parts of the Sahel, as the region had experienced a series of military coups, overthrowing elected governments in several countries.
