The Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in its fight against terrorism.
Dunhai made the remarks in a statement shared on X on Thursday following a meeting with Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s national security adviser (NSA).
The ambassador said China “firmly supports” Nigeria’s development agenda, describing it as one that “fits Nigeria’s national realities.”
He also emphasized that China strongly opposes interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs “under the pretext of religion and 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.
“China is willing to continue supporting Nigeria in combating terrorism and maintaining domestic stability.”
Meanwhile, during a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday, Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, also cautioned against external interference in Nigeria’s affairs.
Ning’s remarks followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of possible military action in Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.
Trump had instructed the U.S. department of war to prepare for “possible action” and warned the Nigerian government to end the “killing of Christians” in the country.
He later redesignated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern (CPC)” amid claims of Christian genocide.
Earlier, some U.S. lawmakers had called on Secretary of State Marco Rubio to take strong diplomatic measures against the Nigerian government, citing alleged “systematic persecution and slaughter of Christians.”
The Nigerian government has repeatedly dismissed such claims, maintaining that religion is not the driving factor behind insecurity in the country.