Kidnapped US aid worker and French journalist released after 7 years

Kidnapped US aid worker and French journalist released after 7 years. Two foreign nationals working as aid staff and journalists in Niger who were kidnapped have been released according to reliable sources.

The two were working in Niger in West Africa. Jeffery Woodke and Olivier Dubois were kidnapped in 2016 and 2021 respectively.

Jeffery Woodke and Olivier Dubois were seen leaving a plane that landed at an airport in Niger’s capital, Niamey, on Monday.

Mr Woodke went missing in Niger in 2016, while Mr Dubois was held hostage in neighbouring Mali for nearly two years.

Their release was secured following efforts by authorities in Niger.

Speaking in Niamey, Mr Dubois, 48, said it was “amazing for me to be here, to be free”.

US aid worker and French journalist kidnapped in Niger but now released has been a piece of welcoming news for many and their families. Olivier Dubois (left) and Jeffery Woodke (second from right) in Niamey on Monday.

READ: Ghana Education Service Announces 2023 BECE Date for School Candidates

“I want to pay tribute to Niger for its skills in this delicate mission and pay tribute to France, to all those who have helped me to be here today,” he told journalists.

Mr Woodke’s release was announced days after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken travelled to Niger for an official visit, becoming the first top US diplomat to do so.

White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said he was “relieved” and thanked the authorities in Niger for “bringing [Mr Woodke] home to all who miss and love him”.

“I thank so many across government who’ve worked tirelessly toward securing his freedom,” he added in a tweet.