China rejects U.S. threats over Nigeria’s religious issues, affirming support for Nigeria’s sovereignty and development path.
China has strongly criticized recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who claimed that Nigeria was designated as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to alleged threats to Christianity within the country. Trump reportedly warned that the United States would suspend all forms of aid to Nigeria and consider possible military action if the Nigerian government failed to address the reported killings of Christians.
In response, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement rejecting the claims, insisting that such allegations do not reflect the true security or religious situation in the nation. The ministry emphasized that the Nigerian government remains committed to protecting the rights and safety of all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity.
Commenting on the matter, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reaffirmed China’s support for Nigeria as a comprehensive strategic partner. Mao stated that China firmly backs the Nigerian government’s efforts to pursue development in line with its national realities and opposes any form of foreign interference.
She further stressed that China rejects the use of religion or human rights as tools to exert pressure or justify sanctions and military threats against sovereign nations. According to Mao, such actions undermine international peace and the principle of mutual respect among nations.
China’s position underscores its longstanding policy of non-interference and its call for diplomatic solutions over coercive measures in addressing global or domestic challenges.