An American missionary who was abducted in Niger Republic last October has been released after spending nine months in captivity, according to his organization.
Kevin Rideout is now in the custody of U.S. officials and is reported to be in good health, SIM International said in a statement Friday. The organization added that he is expected to be reunited with his extended family soon.
Rideout was kidnapped on Oct. 21 in Niamey, Niger’s capital.
Three armed men were involved in the abduction, and security officials at the time said he was likely taken out of the city by vehicle.
No armed group has publicly claimed responsibility for the kidnapping.
Niger has experienced persistent attacks by armed groups, including militants affiliated with al-Qaida and Islamic State.
Following Rideout’s abduction, the U.S. Embassy in Niamey issued a security warning, saying American citizens “remain at a heightened risk of kidnapping throughout Niger, including in the capital city.”
The kidnapping occurred against the backdrop of major political and security changes in Niger.
A military junta seized power in 2023 after removing democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum.
The new government subsequently pushed out Western partners, including U.S. forces, and strengthened its security and diplomatic ties with Russia.
Security concerns have continued to grow in the country. In June, more than 30 people were killed when armed men attacked Niamey’s main airport.
The assault was the second attack on the facility this year.
The airport is a strategically important site, housing the military’s air force base and much of its drone and aircraft fleet.
It also serves as the headquarters of a regional military alliance involving Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso.
Rideout’s release comes as armed groups in the wider Sahel region increasingly expand their attacks into major cities and other urban centers.
