China warns Trump against military intervention in Nigeria

The Chinese government has issued a strong warning against any external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs following U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of possible military action over alleged persecution of Christians.

Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed Beijing’s full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration.

“China firmly supports the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as it guides its people along a development path suited to Nigeria’s national conditions,” she said.

Ning described Nigeria as a “comprehensive strategic partner” of China, emphasizing that Beijing stands by the West African nation amid rising international tension.

“China firmly opposes any country using religion or human rights as a pretext to interfere in the internal affairs of other nations or to threaten them with sanctions and military force,” she added.

Her remarks came in response to questions about Trump’s recent statements, in which he warned the U.S. could take military action if reports of alleged religious persecution in Nigeria persisted.

China’s stance signals strong diplomatic backing for the Tinubu administration at a time when Nigeria faces increasing scrutiny from Western powers, particularly the United States, over its human rights record and internal security challenges.