China Reaffirms Strong Support for Nigeria’s Sovereignty, Condemns Foreign Interference Amid U.S. Tensions

China has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Nigeria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and internal stability, pledging to deepen bilateral security cooperation in the face of mounting global scrutiny and diplomatic tensions.

This assurance was made during a high-level meeting between China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, at the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja.

According to details shared by Ambassador Dunhai on X, the meeting reflected China’s renewed commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Nigeria. He highlighted that relations between both nations have grown significantly since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to China and participation in the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) last year.

The Chinese envoy underscored that practical cooperation between the two countries has yielded tangible results across multiple sectors, particularly in infrastructure development, trade, digital economy, and defense collaboration contributing immensely to Nigeria’s socioeconomic growth and the welfare of its citizens.

Ambassador Dunhai reaffirmed China’s firm support for Nigeria’s chosen path of national development, emphasizing Beijing’s belief that every country has the sovereign right to determine its own system and priorities based on its unique realities. He strongly opposed external interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations under the guise of religion, democracy, or human rights.

He also criticized what he described as the reckless use of sanctions and coercive measures by some Western powers, reiterating China’s position against the “wanton threat of force” in international relations. Dunhai pledged Beijing’s readiness to continue assisting Nigeria in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges threatening domestic peace and stability.

The meeting came at a sensitive time for Nigeria’s foreign relations, following renewed diplomatic tensions triggered by U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged persecution of Christians, a move that has drawn widespread controversy and warnings of potential U.S. military action.

Observers say China’s latest statement signals Beijing’s intent to stand firmly by Nigeria’s side amid growing Western pressure, further cementing its influence as a strategic ally in Africa’s largest economy.