China Reaffirms Support for Nigeria’s Fight Against Terrorism

China has declared its support for Nigeria’s ongoing battle against terrorism but cautioned against any external interference in the country’s internal affairs.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, made this known following his meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, in Abuja. His comments come amid growing international attention after U.S. President Donald Trump recently hinted at a possible military strike in Nigeria over religious tensions.

Dunhai said China would continue to stand by Nigeria as a strategic partner and support its efforts to maintain peace and stability. “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,” he said.

He added that Beijing “opposes any country’s interference in other countries’ internal affairs under the pretext of religion and human rights,” stressing that issues of governance and security should be left to sovereign nations to handle.

China’s Growing Security Partnership with Nigeria

China and Nigeria have strengthened their ties over the years through investments and cooperation in infrastructure, trade, and defense. Dunhai’s recent statement highlights Beijing’s desire to expand that partnership into deeper security collaboration.

According to the ambassador, China is willing to assist Nigeria in combating terrorism through training, intelligence support, and technology sharing. He noted that Nigeria’s stability is crucial to Africa’s security landscape, and China is committed to helping the country overcome insurgency threats that have persisted for over a decade.

see also: US Prepares For Airstrikes in Nigeria After Trump Gives Order to Protect Christians

Analysts say Beijing’s renewed interest also reflects its long-term strategy to build influence across Africa by supporting governments dealing with security challenges. Nigeria remains one of China’s largest trading partners on the continent, making peace and stability an important factor for both nations.

Tension Grows After Trump’s Threat of Military Action

The Chinese envoy’s remarks follow controversial comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who said the U.S. might consider military action in Nigeria to protect Christians. In a post on his Truth Social account, Trump accused Nigerian authorities of failing to curb attacks against Christians and warned that America’s response “will be fast, vicious, and sweet.”

Despite widespread backlash, Trump doubled down a day later, saying he “envisaged many possibilities” including airstrikes or troop deployment. The Nigerian government has dismissed the statement as unnecessary provocation, urging diplomatic dialogue instead.

Observers believe China’s comments are a subtle rebuke to the U.S., emphasizing that external powers should not interfere in domestic matters under the guise of human rights or religion.

As Nigeria prepares for another round of counterterrorism operations in the northeast, Beijing’s message signals not just solidarity, but also a warning to foreign nations to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty while supporting its fight against insurgency.