Chinese mining companies operating in Nigeria have dismissed allegations linking them to illegal mining, resource theft and rising insecurity. The denial comes amid growing public scrutiny of foreign involvement in the country’s extractive sector.
The China Mining Federation of Nigeria issued a statement in Abuja describing the claims as baseless and misleading. The group said Chinese firms have consistently operated under Nigerian laws and international standards, with oversight from both Nigerian authorities and the Chinese government.
According to the federation, Chinese mining companies work closely with Nigerian regulatory agencies to strengthen governance and transparency in the sector. It said their operations are conducted legally and responsibly across host communities.
The federation noted that Chinese investments have contributed significantly to local employment and industrial growth. It said firms have built factories, hired Nigerian workers and increased the value retained from mineral resources within the country.
Officials added that these investments support Nigeria’s drive for industrial transformation, turning raw mineral extraction into broader economic development. The statement also highlighted community development projects and environmental protection efforts carried out by Chinese firms.
Addressing allegations linking Chinese miners to terrorism, the federation said the claims were particularly troubling. It stressed that Chinese companies and workers have themselves been victims of terrorist attacks in Nigeria.
The group said it remains committed to cooperating with Nigerian security agencies to promote safety and stability. It emphasized that both Nigerian and Chinese stakeholders share an interest in a secure environment for business and daily life.
The federation urged the media and public to report responsibly and avoid spreading unverified information. It warned that false narratives could damage long-standing diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and China.
Nigeria and China maintain strong trade relations, with mining playing an increasingly important role in bilateral cooperation.
