Donald Trump calls Buhari, invites him to Washington DC

US President Donald Trump on Monday afternoon spoke with President Muhammadu Buhari in a telephone conversation.


Trump invited Buhari, who is currently in London on vacation, to come to Washington DC at a “mutually convenient” date, presidency sources informed newsmen.

Buhari congratulated Trump on his election as US president and the two leaders highlighted areas to improve cooperation in the fight against terrorism.

The Nigerian president specifically requested support for arms – an area that has frustrated the country because of negative human rights reports on the activities of Nigerian soldiers in the north-east.

“Trump also commended the president for the rescue 25 of the Chibok girls,” the presidency source said.

The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina described the conversation between the two leaders as cordial.

He quoted Buhari as congratulating Trump on his election as the US President and on his cabinet.

The presidential spokesman said the two leaders discussed ways to improve cooperation in the fight against terrorism through provision of necessary equipment.

The statement read, “President Trump encouraged President Buhari to keep up the good work he is doing, and also commended him for the efforts made in rescuing 24 of the Chibok girls and the strides being taken by the Nigerian military.

“President Trump assured the Nigerian President of US readiness to cut a new deal in helping Nigeria in terms of military weapons to combat terrorism.

“President Trump also invited President Buhari to Washington at a mutually convenient date.”