American missionary reportedly kidnapped in Niger

October 22, 2025

An American missionary was kidnapped from his home in Niamey, Niger, on Tuesday by three unidentified gunmen approximately 100 yards from the presidential palace. The victim, who has worked for a US-based charity and lived in Niger since 2010, had his phone tracked to a location about 56 miles north of Niamey, an area considered a sanctuary for Islamic State-affiliated groups. US embassy officials are collaborating with local authorities to secure the American's safe return, with the State Department confirming efforts across the US government to recover the kidnapped citizen.

Who is affected

An American missionary who has lived in Niger since 2010
The US-based charity the missionary works for
The kidnapped American's family (implied)
US embassy officials involved in recovery efforts
Local authorities in Niger working on the case

What action is being taken

US embassy officials are working with local authorities to investigate the kidnapping
The US government is coordinating efforts across agencies to support the recovery and safe return of the American citizen
Authorities have tracked the kidnapped American's phone to a location approximately 56 miles north of Niamey

Why it matters

The kidnapping highlights security concerns in Niger, particularly near high-profile locations like the presidential palace
It occurs in the context of political instability following the 2023 military coup that overthrew President Bazoum
The incident may affect US-Niger relations, as Niger was previously described by the US as "a reliable counter-terrorism partner" and "important as a linchpin for stability in the Sahel"
The location where the phone was tracked is considered a sanctuary for Islamic State-affiliated groups, suggesting potential terrorist involvement

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC