Protestant missionary abducted by militants released in Niger

American Protestant missionary Kevin Rideout. Photo: Christian Daily

On August 14, in Niger, after nearly ten months in captivity, American missionary Kevin Rideout, who was kidnapped in Niger in October by armed men in the country's capital, has been released, reports the Associated Press.

The missionary was seized on October 21, 2025, in Niamey

by three armed individuals and was probably driven out of town, according to information provided by a security official at the time. No armed group claimed responsibility for the abduction.

At the same time, Islamist militants linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State have sharply intensified their activity in Niger and neighboring Sahel countries. They carry out attacks on populated areas, military facilities, and abduct people.

In June, militants attacked Niamey's main airport, killing more than 30 people. The growing number of such attacks indicates that jihadist formations are increasingly shifting their activity from remote areas directly into cities.

Following his release, the missionary was reported to be in good health in the care of U.S. officials. He is expected to be reunited with his family in the near future.

The UOJ previously reported that a Protestant pastor and six Christians disappeared in China following a police raid.

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