The Chinese government has issued a stern warning against any form of external interference in Nigeria’s domestic affairs, following threats by United States President Donald Trump of possible military action over alleged persecution of Christians.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Mao Ning, spokesperson of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said Beijing “firmly supports the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as it leads its people on the development path suited to its national conditions.”
Nigeria’s Dollar Bonds Recover after Initial Drop Triggered by Trump’s Military Threat
Ning described Nigeria as China’s “comprehensive strategic partner,” stressing that Beijing stands by the West African nation amid growing international tension.
“China firmly opposes any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs, and threatening other countries with sanctions and force,” she said.
The remarks came in response to a question about Trump’s recent comments, in which he warned that the United States could take military action against Nigeria if reports of alleged religious persecution continued.
Beijing’s position signalled strong diplomatic backing for the Tinubu administration at a time of increasing pressure from Western powers, particularly the US, over Nigeria’s human rights record and internal security situation.
