Beijing has publicly reaffirmed its support for the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s sovereignty, warning against external meddling in the country’s internal affairs. The statement comes amid rising diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and the United States.
Beijing’s Message to Abuja
Speaking in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning declared that China “firmly supports” Nigeria in choosing a development path suited to its national conditions and stands against the use of religion or human rights as a pretext for interference.
China emphasized that it “opposes any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs, and threatening other countries with sanctions and force.”
Context of the Statement
The remarks arrived shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened possible military action against Nigeria over claims of persecution of Christians, allegations strongly denied by Nigeria.
China described Nigeria as a “comprehensive strategic partner” and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the country’s chosen development path without external coercion.
Broader Cooperation between China and Nigeria
This diplomatic reaffirmation comes within the wider frame of China–Nigeria relations. Earlier in the year, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Nigeria and highlighted China’s opposition to foreign interference in Africa’s internal affairs while pledging grants and capacity‑building support for peace and security on the continent.
The two countries recently elevated their engagement to a “comprehensive strategic partnership” and have outlined cooperation across infrastructure, finance, security and trade.
Significance and Implications
China’s statement shows its broader diplomatic posture of opposing external influence in African states’ domestic matters, a theme it has reiterated in multiple instances. For Nigeria, this strengthens the narrative of external sovereignty and may provide diplomatic leverage amid its tensions with other global actors.
For regional diplomacy, the remarks deepen the China‑Africa narrative of mutual respect and non‑interference, contrasted with major power competition. For Nigeria, the strategic backing from Beijing may encourage closer alignment with China in security, economic and geopolitical arenas.
In the coming months, Nigeria may deepen its strategic cooperation with China while balancing its foreign relations with Western countries. China’s promise to support Nigeria’s development, while endorsing Nigeria’s right to manage its internal affairs, positions Beijing as a key partner for Abuja amid evolving global alignments.
