American Missionary Pilot Kidnapped in Niger as Ministries Call for Prayer

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A Christian ministry is requesting prayer after armed men in Niger kidnapped an American missionary pilot in the capital city of Niamey, merely 100 yards from the presidential palace. Kevin Rideout was kidnapped earlier this week by three individuals in a Toyota Corolla and likely driven out of town, according to the Associated Press, which said the men may have ties to the Islamic State. Rideout works for several ministries, including Serving in Mission International (SIM). Concilium Inc., a ministry that provides security resources to missionaries and persecuted Christians, urged believers worldwide to pray for Rideout’s safety. 

“Brothers and sisters, pray without ceasing for Kevin Rideout,” said Scott Brawner, president of Concilium. “He has served Christ faithfully in Niger, and now he faces trial and danger. Ask the Lord to guard him, strengthen his faith, and fill him with peace that passes understanding. Pray for his family, his colleagues, and those working for his release.

“Ask God to use Kevin’s courage to stir the Church toward deeper faith and obedience. Let his example remind us that following Christ often involves risk, yet no place or circumstance lies outside God’s care. May Kevin’s steadfast witness move us to live boldly for Jesus wherever He sends us.”

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Niger has faced growing instability in recent years, with militant groups expanding their reach and targeting foreigners, aid workers, and Christians. Open Doors ranks Niger 28th among the world’s most dangerous countries for Christians. Open Doors said in its latest report that the “presence of radical Islamist groups” in Niger “has led to frequent attacks and kidnappings, significantly limiting the freedom and safety of Christians.”

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department told AP it is “aware of reports of the kidnapping of a U.S. citizen in Niamey, Niger. Since we were alerted of the situation, our Embassy officials have been working with local authorities."

“It is a top priority for the Trump Administration to look after the safety of every American, and we are seeing efforts from across the U.S. government to support the recovery and safe return of this U.S. citizen,” the statement said.

Photo credit: ©GettyImages/Aoraee

Michael Foust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His stories have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, The Christian Post, the Leaf-Chronicle, the Toronto Star and the Knoxville News-Sentinel. 

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