By Kevin Akor
ABUJA, Nigeria (chatnewstv.com) — The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has strongly rejected allegations that Chinese companies are engaged in illegal mining and paying protection money to terrorist armed groups, describing the claims as “completely baseless” and politically motivated.
In a statement posted on X by the embassy’s verified handle, the unnamed spokesperson said recent accusations including those linked to a bill introduced by certain U.S. congressmen “groundlessly accused China of engaging in illegal mining operations in Nigeria and paying protection money to specific militia groups.”
Some media outlets, the statement added, went further by circulating reports alleging that “Chinese mining companies [are] funding terrorism.”
“These accusations are completely baseless,” the statement said.
“We express our firm opposition and strong dissatisfaction, and request that the relevant media immediately cease spreading such false information.”
The statement, however, was published without the name of a spokesperson attached. It was not issued on official embassy letterhead, and carried no date or signature.
The embassy stressed in the text that Chinese companies operating in Nigeria are required to comply strictly with Nigerian laws and regulations and maintain “zero tolerance toward any enterprise involved in illegal or criminal activities.”
According to the statement, the “overwhelming majority” of Chinese mining firms in Nigeria have maintained what it described as an exemplary compliance record. The companies, it said, actively contribute to local communities, fulfill social responsibilities, protect the natural environment, and support local economic development and job creation.
The Chinese side also underscored its respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and its support for Abuja’s efforts to strengthen mining governance in accordance with national laws and regulations.
“The Chinese Embassy maintains close communication and cooperation with relevant Nigerian authorities at all times,” the statement said.
Addressing security concerns, the statement emphasized that Chinese mining enterprises in Nigeria have themselves been “victims of terrorist activities,” and have consistently supported the Nigerian government’s efforts to safeguard national security.
The embassy said it stands ready to work with Nigeria to further strengthen mining cooperation and governance, promote “healthy, orderly and sustainable development” of bilateral mining ties, and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of enterprises from both countries.
It also urged “relevant parties to immediately stop spreading rumors and slander” that could undermine China-Nigeria friendly cooperation and damage relations between the two peoples.
“We hope that media and people from all sectors will view China-Nigeria mining cooperation in an objective and fair manner,” the statement said, warning against individuals with “ulterior motives” exploiting the issue through misinformation.
