- China has publicly backed Nigeria amid Donald Trump’s threat to deploy troops over alleged Christian persecution, warning the U.S. against using religion as a pretext for interference.
- Beijing reaffirmed its strategic partnership with Nigeria, while presidential aide Daniel Bwala dismissed Trump’s comments as misinformation from separatist groups and urged respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty.
China has thrown its weight behind Nigeria following threats by former U.S. President Donald Trump to take military action over alleged persecution of Christians in the country.
Speaking at a press conference in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, said China “firmly opposes any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs or threaten them with sanctions and force.”
Ning reaffirmed Beijing’s support for Nigeria, describing the country as a “comprehensive strategic partner” and commending its efforts to pursue a development path tailored to its national needs.
DON'T MISS
The statement comes after Trump accused the Nigerian government of targeting Christians and hinted at deploying American troops to intervene — a comment that has sparked outrage from Nigerian authorities.
Reacting on Monday, Daniel Bwala, senior aide to President Bola Tinubu, said while Nigeria remains open to international cooperation on security, it would not tolerate any form of foreign military presence on its soil.
Bwala dismissed Trump’s remarks as misinformation allegedly fueled by separatist groups, including members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who he said are trying to sway U.S. policymakers.
He emphasized that Nigeria does not face any state-backed persecution, urging Washington to respect the country’s sovereignty and instead offer support through intelligence sharing and supply of military equipment to combat terrorism and insecurity.
