President Muhammadu Buhari has spoken with American President, Donald Trump on Telephone, a statement by Nigeria’s Presidency said on Monday.
According to the statement 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”.
The US government under the Barack Obama led government had refused to sell arms to Nigeria to help fight terrorism in Nigeria. The U.S. had indicated that its arms are tied by an American law, the Leahy Act, which prevents it from selling arms to countries with human rights abuse records.
Buhari spoke to Trump on Monday afternoon from London at the request of the American President, the statement signed by Presidential Spokesman Femi Adesina said.
“The conversation was cordial and President Buhari congratulated Trump on his election as President of the United States, and on his cabinet.
“The two leaders discussed ways to improve cooperation in the fight against terrorism through provision of necessary equipment” the statement said in part.
President Trump also 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 also invited President Buhari to Washington at a mutually convenient date” Adesina said.
President Buhari is still on vacation in London amidst speculations about his health as Nigerians continue to await his return.