China has cautioned against any form of external interference in Nigeria’s domestic affairs following a threat by U.S. President Donald Trump to take military action over alleged persecution of Christians.
Speaking at a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reaffirmed China’s strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, commending its efforts to steer Nigeria “on a development path suited to its national conditions.”
Ning stressed that as Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, China “firmly opposes any country using religion or human rights as a pretext to interfere in another nation’s internal affairs or to threaten it with sanctions or force.”
She added that China respects Nigeria’s sovereignty and independence, noting that mutual respect and non-interference remain “the cornerstone of China–Africa relations.”
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The remarks come amid rising diplomatic tension following President Trump’s recent comments accusing the Nigerian government of turning a blind eye to attacks on Christians and vowing that the United States “would not stand idly by.”
Observers say Beijing’s statement underscores its consistent stance on sovereignty and its growing role as a diplomatic counterweight to Western influence in Africa.
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