Wike Backs U.S. Support in Nigeria’s Fight Against Terrorism, Recalls Visit to Maiduguri School Burned After His Departure

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed his support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to assist Nigeria in combating terrorism, stating that he would welcome any foreign partnership aimed at enhancing the country’s counterterrorism efforts.

Wike made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television on Monday, November 3, 2025, where he was asked about Trump’s recent comments on Nigeria’s security challenges.

“I will support Trump in providing technology and assistance to Nigeria in our fight against terrorism,” Wike said. “I will support any country that wants to help the Nigerian government address terrorism. After all, many nations have done so in the past.”

Highlighting the indiscriminate nature of terrorist attacks, particularly in the North-East, Wike noted that victims often cut across different religious and ethnic backgrounds. “When you go to Borno State and hear of bombings, who knows whether the victims are Christians, Muslims, or non-believers?” he asked.

Recounting his experience as Minister of State for Education in 2011, Wike recalled visiting a school in Maiduguri during the height of the Boko Haram insurgency. “I was the first minister to go to Maiduguri. I visited a school, and immediately after I left that school that same day, it was burned down,” he said.

Wike’s comments follow Trump’s recent statement designating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” and warning of possible U.S. intervention if the Nigerian government fails to address alleged religious persecution and insecurity.