US missionary released nine months after abduction in Niger, Christian organization says
An American missionary, abducted in Niger nine months ago, has been released, according to a Christian organization.
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American missionary Kevin Rideout has been released in Niger after being held captive for nine months. Rideout, who works for the Christian organization SIM International, was abducted on October 21, 2025, by three armed individuals in Niamey, the capital city of Niger. He is reportedly in good health and is currently in the care of U.S. officials, with plans to be reunited with his family soon.
No armed group has claimed responsibility for the abduction. At the time of his kidnapping, Rideout was reportedly taken toward the western Tillaberi region, an area where Islamist militants linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State organization are active.
The U.S. Embassy in Niamey had issued a security alert following the kidnapping, warning American citizens of a heightened risk of abduction throughout Niger. The country has been grappling with attacks from various armed groups amidst a ruling military junta that took power in 2023.
What each outlet emphasizes
- CNN: US missionary released nine months after abduction in Niger, Christian organization says
- BBC: US missionary released following kidnap in Niger, Christian group says