US missionary regains freedom after nine months in Niger captivity

American Christian missionary Kevin Rideout has been freed after being held captive in Niger for more than nine months, according to SIM International, the organization he works for. Rideout was kidnapped outside his home in Niamey, Niger's capital, in October 2025 by three armed men who transported him to the western Tillaberi region, an area known for militant activity.

SIM International confirmed on Friday that Rideout is in good health under the care of US officials, though details of his release and captor remain unknown. The organization expressed relief at Rideout's well-being, stating that his family is grateful for the worldwide prayers offered during his captivity. Rideout, a pilot for 19 years, had been working in Niger as a Christian missionary and serves as a pilot for SIM International, which operates in over 70 countries.