China has issued a firm warning against external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs, following a reported threat of military action from the United States over allegations of religious persecution.
The statement came from Mao Ning, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, during a regular press conference in Beijing on Tuesday.
Mao emphasized China’s position as a “comprehensive strategic partner” of Nigeria and declared Beijing’s “firm support” for the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
“The Chinese government firmly supports the Nigerian government as it leads its people on the development path suited to its national conditions,” Mao stated.
The spokesperson’s comments were a direct response to a question about a threat of military action allegedly made by former U.S. President Donald Trump concerning the alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
In her response, Mao articulated a principle that has long been a cornerstone of Chinese foreign policy, using the occasion to criticize Washington.
“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,” she said.
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