China has thrown its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s administration — and cautioned against what it calls foreign interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs.
The statement comes on the heels of recent comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who reportedly threatened possible military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians — a claim Abuja has firmly rejected.
Speaking in Beijing, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, said the Asian nation remains opposed to using religion or human rights as cover to meddle in the internal matters of sovereign nations.
She said, “As Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in choosing its own development path — one that aligns with its national realities.”
Mao added that Beijing stands against any form of pressure, sanctions, or threats aimed at dictating how other countries should govern themselves.
Her remarks follow the U.S. State Department’s decision on October 31 to place Nigeria back on its “Countries of Particular Concern” list, citing alleged religious persecution — a move that has further strained diplomatic ties between both nations.
China’s latest statement is being read as a clear message of solidarity with Nigeria, as tensions between Abuja and Washington continue to simmer.
