In a firm diplomatic response, the Chinese government has warned the United States against meddling in Nigeria’s internal affairs under the guise of human rights or religious protection.
Beijing’s warning comes after U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial decision to re-designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged persecution of Christians , a move that has sparked global reactions and heightened geopolitical tensions.
Speaking during a press briefing in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reaffirmed China’s “long-standing respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty” and its opposition to any form of external interference.
“China firmly opposes any country using religion or human rights as an excuse to interfere in the internal affairs of other nations, or to threaten them with sanctions or military action,” Mao said.
She emphasized that Nigeria remains one of China’s key comprehensive strategic partners in Africa, pledging continued cooperation in trade, technology, and security development.
The Chinese government’s stance follows Trump’s recent public comments suggesting possible U.S. military intervention if Nigeria fails to “protect Christians” , remarks that have drawn criticism from international observers who described them as “reckless and inflammatory.”
Beijing, which has invested over $20 billion in Nigeria across infrastructure, energy, and technology sectors, insists it will not allow its long-term strategic and economic investments in the country to be undermined or “go down the drain” due to external interference or geopolitical tensions.
