China Denies Allegations of Funding Terrorism in Nigeria

The Chinese government has rejected allegations by five US Congressmen of sponsoring illegal mining in Nigeria, describing the claims as “completely baseless”. The Chinese embassy in Nigeria also denied funding radical Islamic groups and ethnic militias to protect its mining interests.

The allegations were made in a bill presented to the US Congress, titled “Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026”, which linked Chinese illegal mining to terrorism funding in Nigeria. The lawmakers claimed that Chinese nationals involved in “illegal mining” operations are paying terrorists for protection.

In a statement, the Chinese embassy in Nigeria said it was “deeply dissatisfied” with the “false accusations” and requested that the relevant media cease spreading such false information. The embassy emphasized that China requires all its nationals to abide by Nigerian mining regulations and has “zero tolerance for mining companies involved in any illegal activities”.

The embassy highlighted that the majority of Chinese mining companies in Nigeria have set an “exemplary record of compliance with Nigerian laws and regulations”. These companies actively give back to local communities, fulfill their social responsibilities, protect the natural environment, and contribute to local economic development and employment opportunities.

The allegations and subsequent denial have raised concerns about the impact of Chinese mining operations on Nigeria’s security and stability. The US lawmakers have urged the Nigerian government to work with the US to counter the “hostile foreign exploitation” of Chinese illegal mining operations.