Ola Wale
China has denied allegations made by the US that Chinese mining companies are involved in illegal mining operations in Nigeria and funding terrorism. The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria described the claims as “completely baseless” and “fabricated rumors.
The allegations were made in a bill introduced by US Congressmen, which accused China of engaging in illegal mining operations in Nigeria and paying protection money to specific militia groups. The bill, titled “Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026”, aims to address religious persecution and mass atrocities in Nigeria .
The Chinese Embassy stated that China respects Nigeria’s sovereignty and supports the country’s efforts to strengthen mining governance in accordance with its laws and regulations. The embassy also emphasized that Chinese companies operating in Nigeria are required to comply with Nigerian laws and regulations .
The embassy further stated that Chinese mining enterprises in Nigeria have themselves been victims of terrorist activities and are willing to cooperate with the Nigerian government to safeguard national security. The Chinese government has urged relevant parties to stop spreading rumors and slander that could undermine China-Nigeria friendly cooperation.
The Nigerian government has also denied allegations of Chinese involvement in illegal mining, with the China Mining Federation of Nigeria stating that Chinese companies are operating lawfully and contributing to the country’s economic development.
The US bill has sparked a diplomatic row between the US and China, with China warning that the allegations could damage bilateral relations. The Nigerian government is also intensifying its efforts to combat illegal mining, with the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, condemning the killing of a security officer during an ambush in Niger State.
The allegations highlight the complex issues surrounding mining operations in Nigeria, including concerns about environmental degradation, human rights abuses, and terrorism. The Nigerian government has pledged to strengthen governance and regulation of the mining sector to ensure that it benefits the country and its people.
