Chinese envoy reaffirms strategic partnership with Nigeria amid U.S criticism

Chinese envoy reaffirms strategic partnership with Nigeria amid U.S criticism

China has pledged continued support for Nigeria in its fight against terrorism and efforts to maintain domestic stability, amid growing international scrutiny over alleged religious persecution.

Speaking after a meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, reiterated Beijing’s commitment to Nigeria’s sovereignty and development. He emphasized China’s opposition to foreign interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs under the guise of religion or human rights.

“As a comprehensive strategic partner of Nigeria, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people to 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. We oppose the wanton threat of sanction and use of force.”

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Dunhai assured that China remains willing to assist Nigeria in combating terrorism and fostering national stability.

The remarks come in the wake of controversial statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, who on Saturday directed the U.S. Department of War to prepare for “possible action” in Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians. Trump also redesignated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern (CPC),” citing claims of Christian genocide.

Responding to the development, Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, echoed Dunhai’s sentiments during a press briefing in Beijing. Ning warned against external interference in Nigeria’s affairs, reinforcing China’s stance on respecting national sovereignty.

Trump’s comments follow calls from U.S. lawmakers urging Secretary of State Marco Rubio to take decisive diplomatic measures against Nigeria, citing what they described as “systematic persecution and slaughter of Christians.”

The Nigerian government has consistently denied these allegations, maintaining that there is no state-sponsored religious persecution in the country.

Chinese envoy reaffirms strategic partnership with Nigeria amid U.S criticism