Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to assisting Nigeria in the fight against terrorism and in maintaining national stability.
Dunhai made this known after a meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
He said China “firmly supports” the Nigerian government’s development agenda, describing it as one that “fits Nigeria’s national realities.
“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 sanction and use of force.
“China is willing to continue supporting Nigeria in combating terrorism and maintaining domestic stability,” Dunhai said.
The envoy further emphasized that China rejects external interference in Nigeria’s domestic matters.
In a related development, Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also cautioned against meddling in Nigeria’s internal affairs during a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday.
Ning made the remark in response to comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened possible military action in Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.
On Saturday, Trump directed the U.S. Department of War to prepare for “possible action” in Nigeria, warning the Nigerian authorities to take urgent steps to stop the “killing of Christians” in the country.
Trump had earlier redesignated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern (CPC)” following allegations of Christian genocide.
Before his remarks, some U.S. lawmakers had written to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging strong diplomatic measures against the Nigerian government over what they described as “systematic persecution and slaughter of Christians.”
The Nigerian government has consistently denied the allegations of Christian genocide.
