Beijing, November 4 — China has sharply criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to label Nigeria a “country of particular concern” over alleged persecution of Christians, calling Washington’s actions “wanton interference” in another nation’s internal affairs.
At a regular press conference on Monday, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning reaffirmed China’s support for Nigeria after Trump threatened to suspend U.S. aid and consider military action against the West African country if its government “continues to condone the killing of Christians.”
“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 sanction and use of force.”
Trump’s October 31 designation marked a dramatic escalation in U.S. rhetoric toward Nigeria, citing “systematic attacks on Christian communities” in the country’s north and Middle Belt regions. In a follow-up statement on November 1, Trump said his administration would “immediately stop all assistance to Nigeria” and warned of “very likely military actions” if the killings continued.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the U.S. allegations as “inconsistent with facts,” saying the government remains committed to combating violent extremism, protecting all citizens, and upholding diversity and inclusiveness.
Beijing’s remarks underscore its close ties with Abuja — a major partner in China’s Belt and Road Initiative and one of its top African trading partners. Analysts note that China’s response also reflects a broader critique of U.S. foreign policy under Trump, which Beijing views as unilateral and destabilizing.
Mao Ning’s comments are part of a consistent Chinese position against the use of human rights or religion as grounds for foreign intervention. “China believes all countries should resolve differences through dialogue and mutual respect, not coercion or threats,” she said.
Trump’s statements have sparked alarm among international observers, who warn that any U.S. military action in Nigeria could trigger regional instability across West Africa, where extremist violence and humanitarian crises have already intensified in recent years.
On November 4, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning chaired a regular press conference.
— 🇨🇳Chinese Embassy in Nigeria🇳🇬 (@china_emb_ng) November 4, 2025
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
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