The Chinese government has publicly affirmed its backing of President Bola Tinubu’s administration as tensions rise following United States President Donald Trump’s threat of military action over alleged Christian persecution in Nigeria. Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, spoke at a press conference on Tuesday, stressing China’s opposition to the use of religion and human rights as justification for interfering in other nations’ affairs.
Ning emphasized that Nigeria and China maintain a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” underscoring China’s confidence in the Tinubu administration’s ability to lead the country along a development path suited to its unique circumstances. “China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people on the development path suited to its national conditions,” Ning said.
Highlighting its broader stance on international relations, China’s spokesperson reiterated that the country opposes threats of sanctions or military intervention as a means of pressuring sovereign states. “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,” Ning added.
The statement follows President Tinubu’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, who has consistently denied any religious discrimination or persecution in Nigeria. Onanuga shared China‘s supportive reaction on his X handle on Tuesday, framing it as an endorsement of Nigeria’s commitment to internal stability and religious harmony.
Observers say China’s firm stance signals growing international backing for Nigeria’s sovereignty amid increasing scrutiny from the United States and other global actors.
