American Missionary Pilot Abducted in Niger Regains Freedom After Nine Months

American missionary pilot abducted in Niger released after nine months in captivity
Kevin Rideout, an American missionary pilot held captive in Niger for over nine months, has been released to United States officials, according to statement from his missionary organization, SIM International.

Confirming the development, SIM International Director Phil Bauman expressed gratitude over Rideout’s freedom, reporting that the missionary remains in good health as arrangements are made to reunite him 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.”

“Kevin is in good health in the care of US officials.”

Rideout was abducted from outside his residence on October 21, 2025, by three unidentified gunmen who subsequently fled toward the western Tillaberi region, an area marked by active insurgent groups. Following the abduction, the United States Embassy heightened security protocols and issued elevated travel warnings regarding kidnapping threats across the region.

Reports indicate that Rideout is in federal custody and in stable condition, supported by proof-of-life documentation obtained prior to his handover. However, specific details regarding the exact circumstances of his release or the specific militant group holding him during the final phase of his captivity remain undisclosed.

The region continues to face persistent security challenges and violent attacks driven by armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, particularly along the tri-border zone connecting Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.

Kevin Rideout, an American missionary pilot held captive in Niger for over nine months, has been released to United States officials, according to statement from his missionary organization, SIM International.

Confirming the development, SIM International Director Phil Bauman expressed gratitude over Rideout’s freedom, reporting that the missionary remains in good health as arrangements are made to reunite him 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.”

“Kevin is in good health in the care of US officials.”

Rideout was abducted from outside his residence on October 21, 2025, by three unidentified gunmen who subsequently fled toward the western Tillaberi region, an area marked by active insurgent groups.

Following the abduction, the United States Embassy heightened security protocols and issued elevated travel warnings regarding kidnapping threats across the region.

Reports indicate that Rideout is in federal custody and in stable condition, supported by proof-of-life documentation obtained prior to his handover.

However, specific details regarding the exact circumstances of his release or the specific militant group holding him during the final phase of his captivity remain undisclosed.

The region continues to face persistent security challenges and violent attacks driven by armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, particularly along the tri-border zone connecting Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.