The People’s Republic of China has reaffirmed its commitment to assisting Nigeria in its ongoing campaign against terrorism and in preserving domestic peace.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, announced this on Thursday via his official X handle following a meeting with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
Dunhai stated that China remains supportive of Nigeria’s developmental goals that “fit Nigeria’s national realities.”
“Great to meet with Mr. Mallam Nuhu Ribadu @NuhuRibadu, National Security Advisor of Nigeria.
“Since President Tinubu’s attendance at the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and his state visit to China last year, practical cooperation between our two countries across various fields has yielded fruitful outcomes, effectively supporting Nigeria’s socioeconomic development and the improvement of people’s livelihoods.
“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,” he wrote.
The envoy stressed China’s firm opposition to any external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs, particularly those masked as concerns about religion or human rights.
“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 sanctions and the use of force.
“China is willing to continue supporting Nigeria in combating terrorism and maintaining domestic stability,” the ambassador added.
His remarks follow growing international attention on Nigeria’s security situation after U.S. President Donald Trump recently warned that American military action could be taken if alleged attacks on Christians were not stopped.
In a similar stance, China’s Foreign Ministry reiterated on Tuesday its opposition to foreign involvement in Nigeria’s domestic issues. During a press conference in Beijing, spokesperson Mao Ning stated that every nation has the sovereign right to handle its internal matters independently and free from external pressure.
The Nigerian government has repeatedly denied allegations of religious persecution or genocide, maintaining that its counterinsurgency operations are aimed at criminal and terrorist groups destabilising the country.
Authorities also criticised the U.S. for listing Nigeria among nations accused of violating religious freedom, describing the classification as “inaccurate and misleading.”
Nigeria insists it is fighting terrorism, not religion, and that both Christians and Muslims have been victims of extremist violence.
On Wednesday, Trump reiterated his readiness to cut off aid to Nigeria if the alleged persecution of Christians continues unchecked.
