Trump ready to support Boko Haram combat, lauds Buhari for rescue of 24 Chibok girls

US President, Donald John Trump has assured Nigeria that he is committed to helping in the fight against terrorism. An apparent reference to the Boko Haram insurgency that has dogged Nigeria for years now.

Trump gave the assurance in a phone chat he held with President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday. A statement from the presidency indicated that the session was cordial with Buhari congratulating Trump on his election victory late last year.

At the heart of their discussion was the fight against terrorism. They discussed ways to improve cooperation in the fight against terrorism through the provision of necessary equipment.

‘‘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,’‘ the statement issued by Buhari’s spokesperson Femi Adesina read.

It added that Trump has invited Buhari to visit the Washington at a mutually convenient time. Buhari becomes the second African leader behind Egypt’s Al-Sisi to speak to Trump on phone. Newt, the US President is expected to hold talks with South Africa’s Jacob Zuma.