President Trump celebrates return of American missionary who was held captive in Niger
In a big win for freedom and the United States, Kevin Rideout, a missionary who was kidnapped by terrorists in Niger, has returned home to America, safe and sound.
by Summer Lane | August 14, 2026
President Donald Trump announced on Friday that his administration had helped to ensure the safe return of Kevin Rideout, a missionary who was kidnapped in Niger last year.
“I am proud to announce that Kevin Rideout, a wonderful Christian Missionary, is back in United States Custody,” President Trump announced.
He continued, “Kevin was kidnapped by Jihadi terrorists in West Africa — The epicenter of Islamist terrorism, where there have been more deadly attacks in the past year than anywhere else on Earth.”
According to SIM International, the mission organization that Kevin worked for, he was released after more than nine months in captivity.
“He was kidnapped from outside his home in Niamey, Niger on the 21st of October, 2025,” the organization said in a statement. “Kevin is in good health in the care of US officials. He will soon be reunited with Krista, his children, and his extended family.”
Samaritan’s Purse President Franklin Graham described Rideout’s release as an “answer to prayer!”
”Kevin, the United States of America looks forward to welcoming you HOME,” President Trump said. “Glad to have helped!”
Persecution of Christians in the Niger and Nigeria region of Africa has become an increasing problem. In fact, Nigeria – the sister country of Niger – is one of the top places in the world for the persecution of Christians.
This persecution stems from the violent system of Sharia Law – applied Islamic law, which creates a caste system of Christians versus Muslims. Under Sharia, Christians are seen as lower-class citizens and often brutally and mercilessly targeted by militant Jihadists.
“Communities fall victim to militant members of the Fulani people group who hide out in forested areas and launch attacks on schools and churches, kidnapping believers and holding them for ransom,” says OpenDoors, an organization that tracks and exposes worldwide persecution. “Others are killed and entire communities thrown into deep fear and uncertainty.”
Since returning to office, President Donald Trump and his administration have secured the release of more than 100 Americans who have been held captive or hostage overseas.
Photo: Pixabay
