US missionary kidnapped in Niger released after nine months in captivity

Kevin Rideout, a pilot with the evangelical missionary agency SIM International, was abducted in the capital, Niamey, on October 21, 2025.

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This photo released by the Azaward Liberation Front (FLA) shows what they say is the aftermath of an attack by FLA separatist fighters in Gao, northern Mali, July 18, 2026 [Azaward Liberation Front via AP]

Niger and its neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso have struggled with armed groups across the Sahel for years.

The US withdrew its troops from Niger after the military seized power in a 2023 coup, while Niger’s authorities have since strengthened security and diplomatic ties with Russia.