American Christian missionary and pilot Kevin Rideout has regained his freedom after spending about nine months in captivity following his abduction in Niger.
Rideout’s organisation, SIM International, confirmed on Friday that he was free and in the care of US officials. The Associated Press also reported that he was in good health and expected to reunite with his family.
Rideout was abducted in Niamey, Niger’s capital, in October 2025. Three armed men reportedly seized him from his home before taking him towards the Tillabéri region, an area affected by militant activity.
The circumstances surrounding his release have not been made public. Reports have also differed over who held Rideout during his captivity, while no group publicly claimed responsibility for his abduction.
Rideout had spent years working as a missionary in Niger and also served as a pilot for SIM International, which operates missionary and humanitarian programmes in several countries.
His disappearance had raised concerns among US officials and missionary communities, particularly because the abduction occurred in Niamey. A UK government response in November 2025 noted that the US was leading efforts over the abduction and subsequently highlighted the risk of kidnapping throughout Niger, including the capital.
SIM International described Rideout’s release as “incredibly good news” following months of uncertainty over his wellbeing.
The organisation said he would soon be reunited with his wife, children and extended family, adding that his family had requested privacy as they reconnect after his lengthy absence.
Rideout’s release comes as Niger and other countries across the Sahel continue to face insecurity involving armed and jihadist groups. The region has experienced repeated attacks and kidnappings, particularly in areas bordering Mali and Burkina Faso.
