China has declared its unwavering support for Nigeria’s government, saying it backs the country’s right to chart its own course of development without foreign interference.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, November 4, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, stated that Beijing “firmly supports the Nigerian government as it leads its people on the development path suited to its national conditions.”
Ning cautioned against what she described as external meddling disguised as concern for human rights or religion.
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“As Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, 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,” she said.
Her comments came in response to a question regarding US President Donald Trump’s threat of military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.
The statement underscored Beijing’s position as a staunch ally of Abuja and signalled growing tension between China and the United States over influence in Africa.