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In a strong diplomatic statement, the People’s Republic of China has declared its opposition to any form of foreign interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs, particularly from countries using religion or human rights as pretexts for political or military intervention. The statement comes after the United States reportedly hinted at possible actions in response to rising concerns about religious freedom and governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
China’s foreign ministry, through its spokesperson, reaffirmed Beijing’s long-standing principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations, emphasizing that every country must be allowed to handle its domestic issues independently.
According to the statement, China fully supports Nigeria’s sovereignty, unity, and stability, warning that external threats or pressures from Western powers could undermine peace, development, and democracy in Africa’s most populous nation.
China’s Position: Respect for Sovereignty Above All
Speaking at a press briefing in Beijing, the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson stressed that Nigeria, like all independent nations, has the right to pursue its development path without external coercion.
“China firmly opposes any country using religion, democracy, or human rights as excuses to interfere in the internal affairs of other nations,” the spokesperson said. “Nigeria is a strategic partner of China, and we trust the Nigerian government under President Bola Tinubu to handle its internal challenges in a way that promotes peace and development.”
The statement further noted that China values its bilateral relationship with Nigeria, which remains one of the largest beneficiaries of Chinese investments and infrastructure projects in Africa. The ministry also reaffirmed China’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Nigeria in key sectors such as energy, technology, security, and infrastructure, while promoting mutual respect and equality.
US Concerns and China’s Response
The United States government recently expressed concerns over alleged religious persecution and political instability in Nigeria. Certain reports circulating in Washington suggested that Nigeria might face sanctions or targeted actions if it fails to address alleged human rights violations and protect minority groups.
In response, Beijing criticized what it described as “the habitual interference of Western nations”, accusing them of using religion and democracy as tools to influence developing countries.
“The world has witnessed repeated cases where Western interventions, under the guise of protecting human rights, have led to chaos, destruction, and instability,” the Chinese official said, referencing past events in Iraq, Libya, and Syria. “Such interference does not bring peace it brings division and suffering. Africa does not need more foreign interference; it needs support for its own solutions.”
Nigeria’s Strategic Relationship with China
China and Nigeria have maintained a robust partnership for over two decades, marked by trade cooperation, infrastructure development, and diplomatic understanding.
Under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria has continued to strengthen its ties with China through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), as well as collaborations in rail construction, telecommunications, and industrialization.
China has invested billions of dollars in Nigerian infrastructure including rail lines, highways, energy projects, and industrial parks while Nigeria has served as one of China’s key trade and investment gateways into West Africa.
Beijing’s latest declaration of support for Tinubu’s government underscores the depth of this partnership and signals a clear diplomatic alignment amid growing geopolitical tension between China and the United States in Africa.
China’s Warning to Western Powers
China’s statement was not only a show of support for Nigeria but also a subtle warning to Western powers, particularly the United States and its allies, to refrain from military threats or policy interference.
“The international community should respect the choices made by the Nigerian people and the government’s efforts to maintain national stability,” the spokesperson continued. “Foreign pressure or threats of military action only serve to escalate tension and destabilize the region.”
Beijing further emphasized that Africa is not a battleground for global power rivalry, calling on global powers to cooperate rather than compete in addressing global challenges such as terrorism, poverty, and climate change.
Tinubu Administration Welcomes China’s Support
A senior Nigerian government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, reportedly welcomed China’s position, describing it as “a reassurance of Nigeria’s sovereignty and the respect of true friends.”
According to the official, “President Bola Tinubu’s administration appreciates every nation that supports Nigeria’s right to self-determination. We will continue to pursue diplomacy that prioritizes peace, development, and respect for international law.”
The Nigerian government has faced increasing scrutiny from Western nations over issues of human rights, economic reform, and religious freedom, particularly following political tensions and security challenges across several states.
However, Tinubu’s allies insist that his administration is focused on restoring stability, economic recovery, and inclusive governance, and has made significant progress despite the inherited challenges.
Africa’s Growing Shift Toward the East
China’s defense of Nigeria reflects a broader trend in African geopolitics the growing shift of influence from the West to the East. Many African nations are increasingly aligning with China and Russia, who present themselves as partners that respect sovereignty and avoid imposing political conditions on aid or investment.
Analysts say this is reshaping the balance of global power, with Beijing’s approach appealing to African governments that seek economic growth without Western-style political pressure.
“China’s support for Tinubu’s government sends a message to Washington that Africa is no longer under Western monopoly,” said Dr. Adewale Ogunleye, a Lagos-based foreign policy analyst. “African leaders now have alternatives, and that gives them leverage in global diplomacy.”
Expert Analysis: Diplomatic Implications
International relations experts believe that China’s public backing of Nigeria could complicate US-Africa relations, especially at a time when Washington is trying to rebuild influence on the continent.
Dr. Zainab Usman, a geopolitical scholar, explained that “China’s statement serves both as a shield for Nigeria and a diplomatic challenge to the US. It reinforces China’s commitment to defending developing countries from Western pressure while deepening its soft power in Africa.”
Others, however, caution that Nigeria must maintain a balanced foreign policy, ensuring that relations with both global powers serve the nation’s best interests. “Nigeria should welcome China’s support but remain non-aligned,” said Prof. Chukwuemeka Ibe of the University of Abuja. “Our priority must be stability and national interest not global rivalry.”
Conclusion: Nigeria at the Center of Global Diplomacy
China’s open declaration of support for President Bola Tinubu’s government marks a significant diplomatic development in Nigeria’s international relations. As global powers jostle for influence in Africa, Nigeria’s position as an economic and political giant makes it a focal point of attention.
Beijing’s message was clear: No country should use religion or ideology as a weapon to undermine another nation’s sovereignty.
While Washington and Beijing continue to clash over global strategy, Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads one that could redefine its role in the global order.
