China has called on the international community to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty following recent remarks by the United States suggesting possible military intervention over alleged persecution of Christians in the country.
During a press briefing on Tuesday in Beijing, the Spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mao Ning, said China stands firmly against the use of religion, human rights, or any other pretext to interfere in the internal affairs of sovereign nations.
She described Nigeria as a “strategic partner,” noting that China supports the administration of President Bola Tinubu in its efforts to pursue a development path aligned with the country’s own national priorities.
“As Nigeria’s strategic partner, China opposes any attempt by foreign powers to use religion or human rights as a pretext to meddle in another country’s internal affairs or impose sanctions and military threats,” Mao said.
Her remarks come after reports that former United States President Donald Trump threatened military action in Nigeria over what he described as alleged systematic genocide against Christians. The alleged threat has sparked global reactions and renewed discussions about diplomacy, sovereignty, and religious freedom in Nigeria.
China and Nigeria maintain longstanding bilateral ties, with Nigeria often considered China’s key partner in Africa in areas such as infrastructure development, trade, and technology cooperation.
Mao reiterated that Beijing is committed to strengthening cooperation with Abuja while supporting its political independence and territorial integrity.
