An American missionary pilot serving in Niger since 2010 was abducted from his home in the capital city of Niamey last week. Three armed men carried out the kidnapping about 100 yards from the presidential palace, where deposed President Mohamed Bazoum has been held under house arrest since a 2023 coup.
The U.S. Embassy in Niamey said it is working closely with local authorities to locate the victim and secure his release. In a statement to CBS, a State Department spokesperson said it remains “a top priority for the Trump Administration to look after the safety of every American.”
The victim, identified by colleagues as missionary pilot Kevin Rideout, has spent more than a decade providing air support for humanitarian and faith-based organizations throughout Niger through his work with Missionary Flights Global.
Kevin Rideout, an American missionary pilot, was kidnapped in Niger’s capital last night.
— Rep. Mark Harris (@RepMarkHarrisNC) October 23, 2025
Pray that he is rescued.
Pray for his family's strength.
Pray that peace is with him in this unimaginable situation.
Pray for U.S. authorities and embassy officials working to bring… pic.twitter.com/JlcP9HLtyJ
“He was a true professional and deeply respected,” said Lee Hodges, director of Hope Springs International, in an interview with The Christian Chronicle.
Hodges recalled flying with Rideout during a 2022 mission to the town of Soura, describing him as “well-known by those on the ground.” The nonprofit operates health, education and clean water initiatives across Niger, Nigeria and Chad.
Following the abduction, the U.S. Embassy issued a nationwide security alert warning that American citizens “remain at a heightened risk of kidnapping throughout Niger, including in the capital city.” The embassy has restricted personnel movement, instituted a curfew and now requires armored vehicles for all travel. Officials in the region told CBS that the kidnappers’ vehicle was tracked about 56 miles north of Niamey. The area is considered a stronghold for groups linked to the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara.
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