China Firmly Denies US Allegations of Terrorism Funding Through Nigerian Mining Operations
The Chinese government has issued a strong rebuttal to allegations made by five United States Congressmen that Chinese mining operations in Nigeria are linked to terrorism funding. Officials in Beijing have described these claims as "completely baseless" and expressed significant dissatisfaction with what they characterize as false accusations against Chinese enterprises operating in Nigeria.
Embassy Statement Rejects Allegations and Defends Chinese Companies
In an official statement released on Thursday, the Chinese embassy in Nigeria categorically opposed the allegations and urged media outlets to cease spreading such reports. "We express our firm opposition and strong dissatisfaction, and request that the relevant media immediately cease spreading such false information," declared the embassy spokesperson.
The embassy emphasized that China maintains a strict "zero tolerance" policy toward illegal activities and requires all Chinese nationals and companies operating in Nigeria to fully comply with Nigerian mining regulations and local laws. According to the statement, most Chinese mining enterprises in Nigeria have established exemplary records of regulatory compliance and have made positive contributions to local communities through environmental protection initiatives, job creation, and economic development support.
Significantly, the embassy highlighted that Chinese mining companies have themselves been victims of terrorist activities in Nigeria rather than sponsors of such violence. This point was emphasized as a direct contradiction to the allegations presented by US lawmakers.
US Legislation Links Chinese Mining to Terrorism Funding
The allegations originated from a bill presented to the US Congress titled the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026. Sponsored by Representatives Riley Moore of West Virginia, Chris Smith of New Jersey, Bill Huizenga of Michigan, Brian Mast of Florida, and Mario Diaz-Balart of Florida, the legislation specifically links Chinese mining operations to terrorism funding in Nigeria.
The bill contends that Chinese nationals involved in illegal mining operations have been paying protection money to militant groups in Nigeria. "The Secretary of State should work with the Government of Nigeria to counteract the hostile foreign exploitation of Chinese illegal mining operations and their destabilizing practice of paying protection money to Fulani militias," the legislation states.
The lawmakers further alleged that illegal mining operations have fueled religious violence in Nigeria's Middle Belt region, contributing to thousands of deaths among Christian communities. The bill claims these operations enable militant groups to carry out targeted killings, hostage-taking, and forced displacement of local populations.
Historical Context of Similar Allegations
This is not the first time Chinese nationals have faced accusations of making payments to militant groups for access to mining sites in Nigeria. A study conducted by SBM Intelligence, a Lagos-based consultancy firm, previously revealed evidence of Chinese companies bribing militant groups in certain regions. The findings, which were shared with The Times newspaper in the United Kingdom, included videos showing militant leaders boasting about their influence over mining operations.
Similarly, an investigation by WikkiTimes, a newspaper based in Bauchi State, reported that Chinese-affiliated miners had bribed the terror faction led by Dogo Gide to gain access to mining sites in Niger State's Shiroro Local Government Area. These previous reports have contributed to the ongoing scrutiny of Chinese mining activities in Nigeria.
China Reaffirms Commitment to Nigerian Partnership
In its comprehensive response, the Chinese embassy reiterated China's respect for Nigeria's sovereignty and pledged continued cooperation with Nigerian authorities. The embassy stated that China remains committed to strengthening mining governance and promoting what it described as "healthy, orderly, and sustainable development" in bilateral mining relations between the two countries.
The statement concluded by emphasizing China's goal to safeguard the rights of enterprises from both nations and deliver tangible benefits to their respective populations through responsible mining practices and international cooperation.
Background on US Lawmakers' Positions
Two of the lawmakers sponsoring the bill, Representatives Riley Moore and Chris Smith, have repeatedly advanced narratives about Christian persecution in Nigeria. They previously expressed support for former President Donald Trump's designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) regarding religious freedom issues. Their legislative efforts reflect ongoing concerns in certain US political circles about religious violence and foreign influence in Nigeria's mining sector.
The controversy emerges against the backdrop of broader international efforts to combat terrorism financing. Canada's government recently released its updated list of organizations designated as terrorist entities for 2026, reflecting ongoing global initiatives to address security threats through coordinated international action and regulatory frameworks.
