China Defends Nigeria After Trump Threatens Military Action Over Religious Rights Allegations

China has voiced strong support for Nigeria amid renewed tensions with the United States following Washington’s decision to designate Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged persecution of Christian communities

At a regular press conference on Monday, November 4, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing stands firmly with Nigeria and opposes any foreign interference under the guise of religion or human rights.

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“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,” Mao 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 sanctions and use of force.”

On November 4, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning chaired a regular press conference.

Journalist: According to reports, US President Donald Trump designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” on October 31 on the grounds that “Christian communities are being… pic.twitter.com/SjN56jbOW1

— 🇨🇳Chinese Embassy in Nigeria🇳🇬 (@china_emb_ng) November 4, 2025

Trump’s Warning to Nigeria

The statement came after US President Donald Trump announced on October 31 that Nigeria had been added to Washington’s list of countries of particular concern, citing what he described as “threats to Christian communities.”

In a follow-up statement on November 1, Trump warned that if the Nigerian government “continues to condone the killing of Christians,” the US would halt all assistance to Nigeria and could take military action “to eliminate Islamic terrorists.”