China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday that China opposes any country using religion or human rights as a pretext to interfere in other countries' internal affairs.

Her remarks came after the US State Department on Monday officially redesignated Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" over alleged mass killings of Christians — a claim Nigeria has denied.

"As a comprehensive strategic partner, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people to follow a development path suited to its national conditions," Mao said at a regular news briefing in Beijing.

"We oppose any country using religion or human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries' internal affairs, and reject threats of sanctions or military coercion," she said.