China backs Nigeria, condemns Trump’s threats, US reacts

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning responded to recent United States actions targeting Nigeria at a press conference on Tuesday.

The US designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” on October 31, citing threats to Christian communities, Dailyeconomy reports.

The Nigerian government rejected these claims, affirming its commitment to religious diversity and fighting violent extremism.

Mao Ning stated, “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.

“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 1, President Trump warned that continued condoning of violence against Christians in Nigeria would result in halting US aid and possibly military action to eliminate Islamic terrorists.

This stance sparked sharp reactions internationally.

In a contrasting view, US House Appropriations member, Riley Moore referenced a Chinese Embassy tweet, asserting, “President Trump is absolutely right to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ who are suffering horrific persecution, and even martyrdom, for their faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

“China will not dictate our foreign policy to us, and we will not be lectured to by a Communist autocracy that recently arrested 30 Christian pastors for their faith and throws ethnic minorities in concentration camps.”