The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has issued a forceful rebuttal against allegations from United States lawmakers linking Chinese mining operations to the financing of terrorism and illegal mineral extraction in Africa’s largest economy.
In a formal statement released on February 12, 2026, the embassy described the claims as “completely baseless” and "false information," asserting that such accusations are designed to undermine the long-standing bilateral cooperation between Beijing and Abuja. The diplomatic row follows the introduction of the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The proposed U.S. legislation, sponsored by five Republican lawmakers, including Representatives Chris Smith and Riley Moore, alleges that Chinese mining firms have paid "protection money" to local militant groups, including Fulani militias and extremist organisations, to secure access to mineral-rich territories. The bill seeks to mandate a comprehensive report from the U.S. Secretary of State on security threats in Nigeria, specifically highlighting "hostile foreign exploitation" of the country's natural resources.
“We express our firm opposition and strong dissatisfaction and request that the relevant media immediately cease spreading such false information,” the Chinese embassy statement read. Beijing maintains a “zero tolerance” policy regarding illegal mining, insisting that all Chinese nationals and enterprises are strictly mandated to comply with Nigerian laws and environmental regulations.
“It must be emphasised that Chinese mining enterprises in Nigeria are victims of terrorist activities,” the embassy spokesperson stated. The mission further highlighted that the majority of Chinese firms contribute positively to the local economy through infrastructure development, job creation, and corporate social responsibility projects in their host communities.