China’s ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has reaffirmed Beijing’s support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, while warning against foreign interference in the country’s internal affairs.
Dunhai made the remarks in a statement following a meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. He said China “firmly supports” Nigeria’s development efforts and backs the government’s pursuit of policies that align with “Nigeria’s national realities.”
“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.
He added that China “opposes any country’s interference in other countries’ internal affairs under the pretext of religion and human rights,” rejecting what he described as threats of sanctions or the use of force.
“China is willing to continue supporting Nigeria in combating terrorism and maintaining domestic stability,” he said.
The ambassador’s comments echoed a warning issued on Tuesday, November 4, by Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, who cautioned against external meddling when responding to questions about U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of military action in Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.
On Saturday, Trump ordered the U.S. Department of War to prepare for “possible action” in Nigeria and warned Abuja to act quickly to stop the “killing of Christians.” He had earlier redesignated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) under U.S. law.
His comments followed calls by several U.S. lawmakers urging Secretary of State Marco Rubio to take diplomatic action against Nigeria over what they described as the “systematic persecution and slaughter of Christians.”
The Nigerian government has repeatedly denied claims of Christian genocide, insisting that the country’s security challenges are not defined along religious lines.
