A California missionary and a French journalist abducted in Niger by an Islamic terrorist group have been released.
Jeffery Woodke of McKinlyville, who was abducted in October 2016, was released this month, according to an update that his church, Arcata First Baptist Church, posted to Facebook on Monday. Woodke served as an aid worker with Youth With A Mission.
“Please keep Jeff and Els in your prayers as he navigates through his newfound freedom and the many challenges that are before him. We are so thankful for God’s faithfulness,” the church’s Facebook post states.
White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan wrote on Twitter that he is “gratified” to hear about the releases of Woodke and the French reporter, Olivier Dubois.
“I’m relieved to see the release of U.S. hostage Jeff Woodke after over 6 years in captivity. The U.S. thanks Niger for its help in bringing him home to all who miss & love him,” Sullivan tweeted. “I thank so many across our government who’ve worked tirelessly toward securing his freedom.”
Dubois was abducted by the same group in April 2021.
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