China has cautioned the United States against any form of military intervention in Nigeria following President Donald Trump’s recent comments alleging “religious genocide” against Christians in the country.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reaffirmed Beijing’s support for Nigeria’s sovereignty and development path, describing the West African nation as a “comprehensive strategic partner.”
“China firmly opposes any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs or threaten them with sanctions or force,” Mao said, according to TheCable.
The statement came in response to President Trump’s warning that the U.S. might take military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians — a claim Nigerian authorities have dismissed as unfounded.
Nigeria Urges Trump To Respect Sovereignty
Reacting to the U.S. president’s comments, Daniel Bwala, a senior aide to President Bola Tinubu, urged Trump to respect Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
In an interview with Russia’s National TV on Monday, Bwala said the genocide allegation was part of a misinformation campaign orchestrated by separatist elements to discredit the Nigerian government.
“We know this narrative is being pushed by IPOB sympathisers to influence Washington’s foreign policy,” Bwala said. “Independent global monitors and credible civil society groups have found no evidence of any state-sponsored religious genocide in Nigeria.”
He argued that U.S. lawmakers, including Senator Ted Cruz, had relied on misleading reports circulated by separatist groups.
“The reports that informed President Trump’s position originated from IPOB-linked sources claiming a Christian genocide. Even their own data contradicts that claim,” Bwala added.
‘Nigeria Doesn’t Need American Boots On Its Soil’
The presidential aide emphasized that while Nigeria welcomes international cooperation in combating insecurity, it does not seek direct foreign military deployment.
“We call on President Trump to assist us with the necessary military technology and equipment to fight terrorism — not troops. Nigeria’s sovereignty must be respected,” he said.
Bwala noted that despite the security challenges facing the country, the Tinubu administration has made “massive progress” in addressing the root causes of violence and instability.
“Our focus is on finding solutions, not amplifying false narratives,” he concluded.
