The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria has strongly rejected allegations contained in a recent US congressional bill accusing China of illegal mining activities in Nigeria and financing militia groups.
In a statement posted on X and titled “Statement by Spokesperson of Chinese Embassy in Nigeria Regarding False Allegations and Reports Claiming So-Called Chinese Illegal Mining in Nigeria and Payment of Protection Money to Specific Organizations”, the embassy described the claims as “completely baseless.”
According to the press release, “a bill introduced by certain US congressmen groundlessly accused China of engaging in illegal mining operations in Nigeria and paying protection money to specific militia groups.”
The embassy also criticised sections of the media for amplifying the claims, noting that “Some media reported on this bill and fabricated such rumors as ‘Chinese mining companies funding terrorism.’”
“These accusations are completely baseless,” it said. “We express our firm opposition and strong dissatisfaction, and request that the relevant media immediately cease spreading such false information.”
The embassy reiterated that it has “consistently required Chinese companies and citizens overseas to strictly abide by the laws and regulations of the host country, to operate lawfully and compliantly, and to show zero tolerance toward any enterprise involved in illegal or criminal activities.”
It further stated that “The overwhelming majority of Chinese mining companies in Nigeria have set an exemplary record of compliance with Nigerian laws and regulations.”
Highlighting their contributions, the statement added that the companies “actively give back to local communities, fulfill their social responsibilities, protect the natural environment, and have made positive contributions to deepening bilateral mining cooperation, supporting local economic development, and creating employment opportunities.”
The embassy emphasised China’s respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty, stating, “The Chinese side has always respected Nigeria’s sovereignty and supports Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen mining governance in accordance with law and regulations.”
It also disclosed that “The Chinese Embassy maintains close communication and cooperation with relevant Nigerian authorities at all times.”
Addressing security concerns, the statement stressed, “It must be emphasized that Chinese mining enterprises in Nigeria are victims of terrorist activities. They have consistently supported and are willing to cooperate with the Nigerian government’s efforts to safeguard national security.”
Reaffirming its commitment to bilateral ties, the Chinese side said it “stands ready to work together with Nigeria to further strengthen mining cooperation and governance, promote the healthy, orderly and sustainable development of China-Nigeria mining cooperation, safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of enterprises from both sides, and bring benefits to the peoples of both countries.”
The embassy concluded by urging caution against misinformation, stating, “The Chinese side urges relevant parties to immediately stop spreading rumors and slander so to cease actions that undermine China-Nigeria friendly cooperation.”
It added, “We hope that Nigerian media and people from all sectors will view China-Nigeria mining cooperation in an objective and fair manner, and will not allow individuals with ulterior motives to exploit them by disseminating false information, thereby affecting China-Nigeria friendly cooperation and damaging the friendship between the two peoples.”
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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