China has warned the United States against interfering in Nigeria’s internal affairs following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat of military action over alleged persecution of Christians.
Speaking at a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday, Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said China strongly opposes the use of religion and human rights as tools for political interference. She stressed that every nation has the right to choose its own path of development without external pressure or threats.
“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,” Ning said.
She added: “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’s comments came in response to questions about Trump’s statement, in which he reportedly threatened military action against Nigeria following claims of Christian persecution.
The statement, which has sparked global reactions, drew a strong response from Beijing, positioning China as a key ally of Nigeria amid the growing diplomatic tension.
Nigeria and China share long-standing economic and diplomatic ties. In recent years, China has invested heavily in Nigeria’s infrastructure, including railways, power projects, and industrial development, under its Belt and Road Initiative.
Reacting to China’s statement, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, shared the remarks on his official X handle on Tuesday. Onanuga reiterated the government’s stance that there is no form of religious discrimination or persecution in Nigeria.
He said the Tinubu administration remains committed to ensuring unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among all faiths in the country.
