The Chinese government has issued a strong warning to the United States and other Western powers against any form of external interference in Nigeria’s domestic affairs, following threats by former U.S. President Donald Trump of possible military action over alleged persecution of Christians.
Speaking at a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday, Mao Ning, spokesperson of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reaffirmed China’s support for Nigeria’s sovereignty and the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“China firmly supports the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as it leads its people on the development path suited to its national conditions,” Ning declared.
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Describing Nigeria as China’s “comprehensive strategic partner,” Ning emphasized that Beijing stands solidly with the West African nation amid growing diplomatic tensions.
“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 added.
Her comments were in direct response to Trump’s recent statements suggesting that the U.S. might consider military intervention if reports of religious persecution in Nigeria persist.
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Beijing’s position is widely seen as a major diplomatic boost for the Tinubu administration, which has faced increasing scrutiny from Washington and other Western capitals over human rights concerns and internal security challenges.
The remarks signal a potential widening rift between China and the U.S. over their approaches to Africa’s governance and sovereignty issues — with Nigeria now emerging as a focal point in the geopolitical contest between the two global powers.