China has cautioned the United States against meddling in Nigeria’s internal matters following U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of military action over alleged persecution of Christians.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reaffirmed Beijing’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying China backs Nigeria’s right to pursue its own development path.

“As Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, China firmly opposes any country using religion or human rights as a pretext to interfere in another nation’s internal affairs or to threaten it with sanctions or force,” Mao said.