By Our Correspondent
A senior United States lawmaker has stated that Washington will not allow China or any foreign power to influence its foreign policy, following growing tensions over possible US military action against terrorist groups in Nigeria.
The comment comes after Beijing warned Washington against using religion or human rights issues as a reason to interfere in Nigeria’s internal affairs. China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that Nigeria’s sovereignty must be respected and cautioned the United States against any unilateral intervention.
In response, several American lawmakers defended the idea of limited military operations aimed at combating terrorist organizations such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, which have caused thousands of civilian deaths across Nigeria’s northern and central regions.
The US legislator said that China will not determine how America defends freedom and human rights, adding that the United States will take decisive action against terrorist groups wherever they threaten innocent lives.
Former US President Donald Trump had earlier warned of possible airstrikes or the deployment of American forces in Nigeria, accusing the government of failing to protect Christian communities. His remarks sparked wide debate and concern, with Nigeria’s government insisting that any foreign military activity on its soil must have prior approval.
Nigeria’s Minister of Information Mohammed Idris described the threats as unwarranted and inappropriate, urging the United States to work through diplomatic and security partnerships instead of acting alone. He said that Nigeria remains a sovereign nation capable of addressing its own internal security challenges in cooperation with other countries.
Analysts say the issue highlights the growing geopolitical rivalry between Washington and Beijing in Africa. While the United States frames its position as a defense of religious freedom and human rights, China argues that such rhetoric often hides strategic motives.
Experts also note that the violence in northern Nigeria is complex, involving ethnic, economic, and regional factors beyond religion. Human rights organizations have warned that any foreign military action without full cooperation from Nigeria could worsen instability in the region.
As both world powers trade statements, Nigeria stands at the center of an emerging contest for influence that could shape its security landscape and Africa’s political balance in the years ahead.
