Trump announces release of American missionary kidnapped in Niger

United States President Donald Trump has announced the release of Kevin Rideout, an American Christian missionary who was abducted in Niger in October 2025.

Trump disclosed the development in a post on his official X handle on Friday, August 14, 2026, saying Rideout was freed after nearly 10 months in captivity.

Rideout, a missionary pilot working with the US-based faith organisation, Serving In Mission, SIM International, was abducted from his home in Niamey, the capital of Niger, in October last year.

Trump said the American was kidnapped by what he described as “Jihadi terrorists in West Africa,” adding that he was pleased to announce Rideout’s release.

“I am proud to announce that Kevin Rideout, a wonderful Christian Missionary, is back in United States Custody,” Trump wrote.

The US president said Rideout was taken by jihadists in West Africa, describing the region as the “epicenter of Islamist terrorism.”

“Kevin, the United States of America looks forward to welcoming you home. Glad to have helped!” Trump added.

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