China Tells Foreign Powers to Respect Nigeria’s Sovereignty

China has thrown its weight behind Nigeria, warning foreign powers to respect the country’s sovereignty amid the recent U.S. military threat.

At a press briefing in Beijing on Tuesday, the Spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mao Ning, reaffirmed Beijing’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration and praised Nigeria’s efforts to pursue development based on its own national priorities.

“As Nigeria’s strategic partner, China 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,” Mao Ning said.

The statement comes after the U.S. reportedly threatened military action against Nigeria over allegations of Christian persecution.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump had warned that his administration would consider deploying troops to Nigeria if the alleged genocide against Christians continued.

China’s latest position reinforces its long-standing diplomatic partnership with Nigeria and its commitment to non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations.

Beijing also reiterated its belief that dialogue and mutual respect are the best paths to maintaining peace and stability in Africa.