China has thrown its weight behind President Bola Tinubu amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.
At a press briefing on Tuesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning delivered a sharp rebuke to Washington, warning against using religion and human rights as pretexts for foreign interference.
“China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people on a development path suited to its national conditions,” Ning said.
“We oppose any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to meddle in others’ internal affairs or threaten them with sanctions and force.”
The comments came in response to Trump’s controversial warning of possible military intervention over alleged attacks on Christians in Nigeria.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga shared Beijing’s stance on X, reiterating the State House’s position that Nigeria does not persecute any religious group.
