China has called on the international community to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty in the wake of recent threats of military action by the United States government.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Chinese government reaffirmed its support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration and commended Nigeria’s efforts to pursue a development model suited to its unique national circumstances.
According to a report published on the website of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ministry’s spokesperson, Mao Ning, made the remarks during a press briefing in Beijing.
“As Nigeria’s strategic partner, China firmly opposes any attempt by foreign powers to use religion or human rights as a pretext to interfere in another country’s internal affairs or to impose sanctions or military threats,” Mao said.
Her comments come amid growing tensions following a statement by U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to deploy American military forces to Nigeria if the alleged persecution of Christians in the country is not addressed.
Trump had earlier accused the Nigerian government of allowing what he described as a “Christian genocide” and warned of possible military intervention should the situation persist.
China’s response underscores its long-standing policy of non-interference and its strategic partnership with Nigeria, particularly in areas of trade, infrastructure, and security cooperation.
