American missionary kidnapped in Niger in October freed, his organization says

August 14, 2026 / 5:05 AM EDT

/ CBS/AP

Add CBS News on Google

Niamey, Niger — An American missionary who was kidnapped in the West African nation of Niger in October has been released, his organization said Friday.Kevin Rideout "is in good health in the care of U.S. officials," Fort Mill, South Carolina-based SIM International said in a statement. He "will soon be reunited with Krista, his children, and his extended family," the statement from the Christian group said. "Krista and the rest of Kevin's family are profoundly grateful for the prayers offered on their behalf by people around the world throughout his captivity, and in particular for the deep level of prayer and support offered by our SIM family."

A map shows the nations and major cities in northern and western Africa.