China has urged the international community to uphold Nigeria’s sovereignty amid escalating tensions following threats of possible U.S. military action against the West African nation.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Chinese government reaffirmed its support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, praising Nigeria’s commitment to pursuing a development path tailored to its national realities.

According to a report on the website of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks during a press briefing in Beijing, emphasising China’s opposition to foreign interference under any guise.

“As Nigeria’s strategic partner, China firmly rejects any attempt by external forces to exploit issues of religion or human rights as excuses to meddle in another country’s internal affairs or to justify sanctions or military threats,” Mao stated.

Her comments followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s warning that American forces could be deployed to Nigeria if alleged persecution of Christians is not halted. Trump had earlier accused the Nigerian government of permitting what he termed a “Christian genocide.”

China’s reaction reflects its consistent foreign policy of non-interference and highlights the deepening strategic partnership between Beijing and Abuja in areas such as trade, infrastructure development, and security collaboration.