US missionary freed after nine months in Niger captivity

American missionary Kevin Rideout has been freed after more than nine months in captivity in Niger, his organization SIM International announced Friday. Rideout was kidnapped outside his home in the capital, Niamey, in October 2025 by three armed men. He was reportedly taken to the western Tillaberi region, an area known for militant activity.

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in good health in the care of US officials

SIM International stated that Rideout is in good health and under the care of US officials. The New York Times, citing unnamed US officials, reported he was in FBI custody. However, the specifics of his release and who held him are still unclear. Concerns had been raised that militants, including an al-Qaeda affiliate active in the region, might have been involved.

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incredibly good news

Rideout, a pilot, had served as a missionary in Niger for 19 years with SIM International. His release occurs amidst ongoing insecurity in Niger and the broader Sahel region, where jihadist groups frequently carry out attacks and kidnappings. This violence has persisted for over a decade, causing thousands of deaths and significant displacement.

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Krista and the rest of Kevin’s family are profoundly grateful for the prayers offered on their behalf by people around the world throughout his captivity