By: Sunday Ameh
China has issued a strong diplomatic caution against foreign interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs, following remarks attributed to United States President Donald Trump suggesting possible military action over alleged persecution of Christians in the country.
Speaking at a press briefing in Beijing on Tuesday, Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to strengthening its long-standing ties with Nigeria and expressed firm support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government.
“As Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, China firmly opposes any country using religion or human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs, and threatening other countries with sanctions and force,” Mao Ning stated.
She stressed that Nigeria, like every sovereign nation, retains the right to chart its own development course based on its unique national realities. According to her, attempts by foreign powers to impose political pressure under the guise of human rights concerns are unacceptable and undermine global stability.
“China firmly supports the Tinubu administration as it leads its people on the development path suited to its national conditions,” she added, emphasizing respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and stability.
Her remarks come amid global attention on religious tensions and human rights issues in Nigeria, and follow Trump’s controversial comments hinting at the possibility of US military intervention. The statement also reinforces China’s growing diplomatic and economic footprint in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, where it has invested heavily in infrastructure and trade partnerships.
Observers say China’s position reflects its broader foreign policy stance against unilateral sanctions and military threats, especially from Western powers. The latest development signals Beijing’s intention to stand closely with key African allies and resist what it views as external political coercion.
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