China has cautioned the United States against meddling in Nigeria’s internal affairs after Trump’s military threat.
Beijing reaffirmed support for President Tinubu and urged respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity.
China has warned the United States against interfering in Nigeria’s domestic affairs following U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of military action over alleged persecution of Christians.
At a press briefing in Beijing on Tuesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing fully supports the administration of President Bola Tinubu and urged Washington to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty. She emphasized that China stands firmly against the use of religion or human rights as excuses to interfere in the internal matters of other nations or to impose sanctions and threats of force.
“As Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, China supports the Nigerian government in pursuing its chosen path of development. We oppose any attempt by foreign powers to use religion or human rights to justify interference or coercion,” Ning stated.
The comments followed Trump’s recent warning that the U.S. could take action against Nigeria, citing claims of Christian persecution.
Reacting to the development, Bayo Onanuga, spokesperson for President Tinubu, shared China’s position on his X account, noting that the Presidency has repeatedly dismissed allegations of religious discrimination.
Onanuga maintained that Nigeria remains committed to unity and religious tolerance, insisting that claims of targeted persecution are unfounded.
