U.S. Representative Riley M. Moore, who represents West Virginia’s 2nd District in Congress, has sharply criticized the Chinese government following its warning to Washington not to interfere in Nigeria’s internal affairs. China’s reaction came after U.S. President Donald Trump designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” on October 31, citing what he described as growing threats against Christian communities in the country.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, however, rejected the claim, saying the allegation was “inconsistent with the facts” and insisting that the government continues to fight violent extremism, protect citizens, and uphold religious freedom and diversity.
Trump followed his designation with a stronger warning on November 1, stating that if the Nigerian government “continues to condone the killing of Christians,” the United States would halt all assistance to Nigeria and could “very likely take military action” to eliminate terrorist groups in the country.
In response to Washington’s posture, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said China “firmly supports” Nigeria’s sovereignty and development path, adding that Beijing opposes interference in the internal affairs of other nations under the guise of religion or human rights. She added that China rejects “the wanton threat of sanctions and use of force.” Rep. Moore, however, pushed back forcefully against China’s comments, insisting that Beijing has no authority to lecture the United States on foreign policy matters.
“China will not dictate our foreign policy to us,” Moore said, accusing the Chinese government of persecution of religious and ethnic minorities.
He referenced reports of Christian pastors being arrested in China, as well as claims about the treatment of ethnic groups in the country. “President Trump is absolutely right to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ who are suffering horrific persecution, and even martyrdom, for their faith,” Moore wrote. “We will not be lectured to by a Communist autocracy that recently arrested 30 Christian pastors for their faith and throws ethnic minorities in concentration camps.”
The exchange adds another layer to the escalating diplomatic tensions surrounding U.S.–Nigeria relations, as debates over human rights, religious freedom, and foreign intervention continue to intensify.