STATEMENT OF ELS WOODKE REGARDING JEFFERY WOODKE’S RELEASE
7:00am PDT March 20, 2023
Els Woodke confirmed this morning that she has been informed by the U.S. government that her husband Jeffery Woodke is free after 6½ years captivity in West Africa. Jeff, a missionary who has been conducting humanitarian aid work in Niger for more than 30 years, was kidnapped from his residence in Abalak, Niger on October 14, 2016. The U.S. and Nigeran governments have long suspected that jihadists have held Jeff in the Sahel since then.
Els has not yet heard from Jeff but she has been told he is in good condition. She has expressed her profound thanks to the many people in governments and others around the world who have worked so hard to see this result. She praises God for answering the prayers of Christians everywhere who have prayed for this outcome.
Els will release more information later today as it becomes available to her.
Update 9:00 am PDT March 20, 2023
Els Woodke received a telephone call from Jeff at 8:00am PST. She was able to speak with him for about an hour. He was in great spirits and thrilled to be free. He is undergoing medical evaluation and will be working with his family and the U.S. government on plans for his return home and reunion with his family.
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For further information: Jeff Neely, (719) 229-5604, info@bringjeffhome.com; Bob Klamser, (805) 207-2261, rklamser@cricon.org.