China has thrown its weight behind Nigeria in the wake of diplomatic tensions sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged persecution of Christians and his subsequent threat of sanctions and possible military action.
The Chinese government reiterated its support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, commending the government for guiding the country along a development path tailored to its national conditions.
Speaking at a regular press conference in Beijing on Tuesday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Mao Ning, said China stands firmly with Nigeria and opposes external interference under the guise of religion or human rights.
She said, “As Nigeria’s strategic partner, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people to a development path that fits Nigeria’s national realities.
We 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.”
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President Trump, who designated Nigeria a CPC on October 31 citing alleged threats to Christian communities, escalated tensions further on November 1 with a warning that the U.S. would “immediately stop all assistance” to Nigeria and consider military action if Nigerian authorities “continue to condone the killing of Christians.”
China’s position reinforces its longstanding policy of non-interference and strengthens its geopolitical partnership with Africa’s largest democracy.