American missionary pilot released after being abducted in Niger last year: report
An American missionary pilot has reportedly been released from captivity after being abducted last October in Niger.
Two U.S. officials told The New York Times on Thursday that Kevin Rideout, who serves with the North Carolina-based Evangelical organization Serving In Mission, was in U.S. custody and en route to the United States.
For months, public information about Rideout's status and whereabouts was scarce, with many Christians and church groups praying for his safety at the urging of influential Evangelical figures like Franklin Graham. The details of his rescue location and those responsible for holding him remain unclear.
Rideout served for years flying mission personnel and equipment across West Africa. He also helped to facilitate the work of several organizations, according to a 2014 report from The Wellesley Townsman.
He was reportedly kidnapped by three men near the grand Bravia Hotel, in the city center, just a few hundred meters from the presidential palace. The country has been in political turmoil since a coup d'etat in July 2023.
Officials cited by The New York Times say that Rideout is now in FBI custody and appears to be in good health.
The Christian Post has reached out to the State Department and White House for comment on Rideout. A response is pending. The Trump administration had deemed Rideout’s release a “top priority” at the time of his capture.
The U.S. Embassy in Niamey issued a security alert after Rideout’s abduction, warning Americans that they face a "heightened risk of kidnapping" throughout the country.
