China has cautioned the United States against interfering in Nigeria’s internal affairs following threats by U.S. President Donald Trump of possible military action over alleged persecution of Christians.
At a press conference on Tuesday, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, said Beijing strongly opposed any country using religion or human rights as a pretext to impose sanctions or threaten force against another sovereign state.
Responding to a question on Trump’s remarks, Ning reaffirmed China’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration and Nigeria’s right to pursue its own path of development.
“As Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people on the development path suited to its national conditions.
“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,” Ning stated.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga shared China’s statement on his X handle on Tuesday, describing it as a demonstration of international confidence in Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Onanuga had earlier dismissed allegations of religious persecution in Nigeria, insisting that the country remains committed to freedom of worship and peaceful coexistence among its citizens.