China has reaffirmed its support for Nigeria’s sovereign right to pursue an independent development path, emphasizing its opposition to foreign interference under the guise of religion or human rights. This declaration came from Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning during a press briefing in Beijing, where she underscored China’s longstanding diplomatic principle of non-interference and mutual respect. Her remarks followed the U.S. State Department’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged religious persecution, a move that has drawn criticism from Nigerian officials and now, a rebuke from Beijing.
Mao Ning stated that China, as a comprehensive strategic partner of Nigeria, firmly backs the Nigerian government in its efforts to lead the country toward progress based on its own national conditions. She stressed that no country should use religion or human rights as a pretext to impose its will or interfere in another nation’s internal affairs. Her comments appeared to indirectly reference recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened military intervention in Nigeria over claims of mass killings of Christians, allegations that Nigeria has strongly denied.
The Nigerian government has consistently maintained that extremist violence affects citizens of all faiths and that its counterterrorism efforts are aimed at protecting all communities. China’s public endorsement of Nigeria’s position adds diplomatic weight to the country’s defense against external criticism and reinforces its stance on sovereignty and self-determination. Nigerian officials welcomed China’s support, viewing it as a reaffirmation of their right to chart their own course without undue pressure from foreign powers.
This development highlights the deepening strategic relationship between China and Nigeria, rooted in shared values of mutual respect, economic cooperation, and political autonomy. As global tensions rise over governance and human rights narratives, China’s backing signals a commitment to bilateral engagement free from ideological imposition. It also reflects a broader geopolitical shift, where emerging powers are asserting their influence by supporting national sovereignty and resisting unilateral actions from traditional global actors.