China Backs Tinubu, Warns US Against Interfering in Nigeria

China has cautioned the United States against meddling in Nigeria’s internal affairs, following statements by President Donald Trump suggesting possible military intervention over alleged persecution of Christians in the country.

During a press briefing on Tuesday, November 4, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, reaffirmed Beijing’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government, emphasizing that Nigeria has the right to pursue its own development path in line with its national realities.

Mao described Nigeria as China’s “comprehensive strategic partner” and stressed that Beijing stands firmly with the West African nation amid growing international scrutiny. “China firmly opposes any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs or to threaten them with sanctions or force,” she stated.

The warning follows Trump’s recent decision to redesignate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing what he called a “Christian genocide” taking place there—a move that has drawn sharp reactions from Abuja and now Beijing.