US President Donald Trump has confirmed the release of American missionary Kevin Rideout, who spent more than nine months in captivity in Niger.
Trump announced Rideout’s release in a post on his Truth Social platform on Sunday, saying the former hostage was preparing to return to the United States after being reunited with his wife, Krista.
“I am happy to reveal that former hostage Kevin Rideout is getting ready to fly home to the United States after having been reunited with his beautiful wife, Krista,” Trump wrote.
The US president described Rideout’s release as another milestone in his administration’s efforts to secure the freedom of American citizens held captive abroad.
According to Trump, Rideout became the “110th captive American liberated” since he began his second term as president.
“I look forward to seeing Kevin and Krista at the White House soon!” he added.
Rideout, a Christian missionary and pilot with SIM International, was abducted outside his home in Niamey, Niger, in October 2025.
The missionary had reportedly spent about nine months in captivity before his release.
SIM International subsequently confirmed that Rideout was in good health and in the care of US officials following his freedom.
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Reports said three armed men abducted Rideout and transported him to the Tillaberi region in western Niger, an area that has experienced significant militant activity and insecurity.
The circumstances surrounding his release remain unclear, including the identity of his captors and the specific efforts that led to his freedom.
Rideout had lived and worked in Niger for 19 years before his abduction. He served as a pilot for SIM International, a Christian organisation involved in humanitarian and missionary activities in more than 70 countries.
His release brings an end to a lengthy period of uncertainty for his family, colleagues and supporters, who had awaited his safe return.
Trump’s announcement also places Rideout among a growing number of American hostages and detainees whose releases the president has highlighted since returning to office.
The US government has not publicly provided detailed information about the negotiations or security operations that secured Rideout’s freedom.
His return to the United States is now expected following his reunion with his wife and ongoing care under US officials.
The case has also drawn attention to the security risks faced by humanitarian workers and missionaries operating in parts of West Africa, particularly areas affected by armed groups and militant activity.