An American missionary pilot, Kevin Rideout, who was held captive in Niger for more than nine months, has been released and handed over to United States officials, according to his missionary organisation, SIM International.
SIM International Director Phil Bauman confirmed Rideout’s release and expressed gratitude for his freedom, saying the missionary was in good health and arrangements were being made for him to reunite with his family.
“We are grateful to confirm that our good friend and brother in Christ, Kevin Rideout, has been released after over nine months in captivity,” Bauman said.
“Kevin is in good health in the care of US officials.”
Rideout was abducted outside his residence in Niger on October 21, 2025, by three unidentified gunmen who reportedly fled towards the western Tillaberi region.
Following the abduction, the United States Embassy heightened security measures and issued warnings over the risk of kidnapping in the region.
Reports indicate that Rideout is now in federal custody and in stable condition. Proof-of-life documentation had reportedly been obtained before his handover to US authorities.
However, details surrounding his release, including the circumstances under which he was freed and the identity of the group that held him during the final stage of his captivity, have not been disclosed.
The Tillaberi region continues to face serious security challenges, with armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State operating across parts of the wider Sahel, particularly around the tri-border area connecting Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso.