China has urged the international community to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty following a threat of military action from the United States. The warning from Washington came after President Donald Trump accused the Nigerian administration of letting genocide be perpetrated against Christians. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in response, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed strong opposition to any foreign interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs.
Speaking at a press conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said China had supported Nigeria as a “comprehensive strategic partner.” She insisted that Nigeria has the right to decide its path of development and should not be under external pressure based on unverified allegations.
Beijing Rejects Use of Religion as a Political Tool
China accused the United States of using religion and human rights as excuses for interfering in the internal affairs of sovereign countries. According to Mao Ning, it was destabilizing and counterproductive. She reaffirmed that China respects the different approaches of governance exercised by various nations and supports Nigeria upholding its sovereignty and unity.
“China firmly stands with the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that is steering the people along a path of development appropriate to its national circumstances,” said Mao. She underlined the resolve of Beijing to be alongside Nigeria as international headwinds gather and to work continuously to deepen bilateral cooperation.
Analysts Establish US Pressure within the Context of Geopolitical Rivalry
Some political analysts argue that the US threat is a result of the growing ties between Nigeria and China. Distinguished Professor Jibrin Ibrahim, Senior Fellow of the Centre for Democracy and Development, avers that what Washington was doing was a reflection of a wider geopolitical dynamic and not real concern with religious freedom.
“It has been going on for a long time and the Nigerian government must be aware of it,” said Ibrahim. He said, the visit of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom was often to Nigeria as part of their investigation of these kinds of things, however, little evidence is produced.
Strengthening Sino Nigerian Relations
China and Nigeria have reinforced their partnership over the past few years in trade, infrastructure development, and in multilateral cooperation. A major part of this investment in Nigeria has been to develop railway, power and telecommunications projects. Both countries continue to strengthen bilateral cooperation with respect to regional security and economic development.
