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China said it opposes any country meddling in Nigeria’s internal affairs following a threat of military action by U.S. President Donald Trump over the alleged persecution of Christians in the West African nation.
Speaking at a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday, Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said Beijing “firmly supports” President Bola Tinubu’s administration as it “leads its people on the development path suited to its national conditions.”
“As Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, 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,” Mao said.
Her comments come in response to Trump’s remarks, in which he accused the Nigerian government of failing to protect Christians and suggested that Washington could consider military options if the situation persists.
China’s statement underscores its long-standing policy of non-interference and its growing strategic partnership with Nigeria, a key African ally. Beijing has invested heavily in Nigeria’s infrastructure, energy, and technology sectors, positioning itself as a counterweight to Western influence on the continent.
While the U.S. has frequently criticised Nigeria on issues of governance and human rights, China has consistently maintained a stance of diplomatic support, emphasising respect for sovereignty and domestic autonomy.
Analysts say the exchange highlights the deepening geopolitical rivalry between Beijing and Washington in Africa, where both powers are seeking to expand their political and economic influence.
