President Muhammadu Buhari, today met with United States President Donald Trump. At a press conference after the meeting, the two world leaders answered questions on several issues. Here are key takeaways from the meeting.
On corruption
President Trump commended the effort of the Nigerian Government in its fight against corruption. He noted that there had been a significant improvement in the fight against corruption in the country.
On Trade
Trump also gave assurance of his government commitment to improve trade relations between the two countries by removing barriers currently being experienced.
In his words
“We will be ripping down those trade barriers, and if that happens the US will be investing heavily in Nigeria”
Specifically, he said the US government will be willing to export more of its agricultural products to Nigeria.
Security
Trump who described Nigeria as a “valued partner and friend” also assured on supporting the government in the fight against insurgents in the country. The United States government will be willing to sell more helicopters to Nigeria. He also commended Buhari’s efforts on dealing with Boko Haram
He (President Buhari)’s been a real leader in the fight against terrorism. Nigeria is leading regional efforts against Boko Haram, and ISIS in West Africa”
Buhari’s response
While responding, President Buhari, commended President Trump for his statesmanly role in transforming so dramatically the course of events in the Korean Peninsula.
Buhari also used the opportunity to highlight his achievements in diversifying the economy. Rice importation had gone down drastically.
In addition, he stated that Attorneys General of Nigeria and the US are collaborating on the return to Nigeria of $500m in looted funds.