China has restated its commitment to help Nigeria in its ongoing fight against terrorism and efforts to maintain internal peace.
The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, made this known on Thursday in a post shared on X after meeting with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, in Abuja.
Dunhai said China fully supports Nigeria’s development plans that align with its national realities, adding that both countries have enjoyed stronger cooperation since President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Beijing during the China-Africa summit last year.
“As a comprehensive strategic partner of Nigeria, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people on a development path that fits Nigeria’s national realities,” Dunhai said. “We oppose any country’s interference in other countries’ internal affairs under the pretext of religion and human rights. China will continue to support Nigeria in combating terrorism and maintaining domestic stability.”
He also rejected any foreign interference in Nigeria’s affairs, saying sanctions or threats of military action under human rights excuses were unacceptable.
His remarks followed recent threats from former US President Donald Trump, who said he would cut aid and consider military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.
In a similar stance, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Mao Ning, warned against any external involvement in Nigeria’s internal matters during a press briefing in Beijing on Tuesday.
Ning said China believes every nation has the right to handle its domestic issues without outside pressure or threats.
The Nigerian government has continued to deny claims of religious persecution, insisting that the nation’s security challenges stem from terrorism and criminal activities, not religion. It said both Christians and Muslims have been victims of violent attacks by extremists.
