China has issued a strong warning against any foreign interference in Nigeria’s domestic affairs, pledging full support to President Bola Tinubu’s government as tensions rise over recent U.S. threats of possible military action. Beijing’s statement marks a significant show of alignment with Africa’s most populous nation, intensifying the global rivalry between the world’s two largest powers.
Key Highlights:
- China warns against using religion or human rights as excuses for foreign intervention.
- Trump’s administration re-adds Nigeria to the “Countries of Particular Concern” list.
- Beijing backs Tinubu’s leadership and Nigeria’s sovereignty.
- Analysts say U.S. rhetoric reflects fears of China’s expanding influence in Africa.
- Nigeria places its military on alert as tensions escalate.
In a Tuesday briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning declared that Beijing “firmly supports Nigeria” as it follows a development model aligned with its national realities. She condemned what she described as attempts by “some countries” to weaponize religion and human rights to justify sanctions or military threats.
This response was aimed squarely at the U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently warned that Washington could consider military action if alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria continues. The warning followed the U.S. decision to restore Nigeria’s name to the Countries of Particular Concern list, citing violations of religious freedom.
Trump had claimed that Christians in Nigeria faced an “existential threat,” vowing to “protect the faithful” if the Nigerian government failed to act. Nigeria’s Chief of Defense Staff dismissed the accusations, insisting the country upholds religious freedom and equality among all faiths.
While the Tinubu administration expressed willingness to collaborate with the United States on counterterrorism efforts, it emphasized that any partnership must respect Nigeria’s sovereignty. “Nigeria doesn’t need American boots on our soil,” a presidential adviser stated, reinforcing Abuja’s preference for bilateral cooperation over external military pressure.
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China’s involvement in Nigeria’s defense and infrastructure sectors has deepened in recent years, a shift many analysts believe is unsettling to Washington. Beijing has supplied advanced military hardware, including VT-4 main battle tanks and HJ-12 anti-tank missiles—equipment previously denied by the U.S.
Beyond arms sales, China is also investing in establishing local defense industries and expanding its footprint through infrastructure projects under the Belt and Road Initiative. American analysts see these moves as part of Beijing’s strategy to consolidate influence across Africa.
Social media conversations in Nigeria have mirrored skepticism toward U.S. intentions. Many users accused Washington of using religion as a façade to counter China’s growing economic and military partnership with Nigeria.
As global powers jostle for leverage, Russia is also monitoring the developments, particularly following its growing presence in neighboring Niger after U.S. forces were asked to leave.
For now, China’s support provides Nigeria with diplomatic balance amid rising pressure from Washington. Yet the situation highlights a wider geopolitical struggle playing out across Africa, one where Nigeria must carefully navigate the competing interests of global powers while safeguarding its national sovereignty.
