The Chinese government has declared strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat of potential military action against Nigeria.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, stated that China rejects the use of religion or human rights as a justification for interference in another nation’s domestic affairs or the use of sanctions and force.
Ning gave the response after being asked about Trump’s comments regarding alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
“As Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people on the development path suited to its national conditions.
“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 said.
According to Naijalog, the reaction was shared on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu, through his X handle.
Onanuga has repeatedly dismissed claims of religious oppression or discrimination in Nigeria on behalf of the Presidency.