The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has affirmed its respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and expressed readiness to support stronger mining governance reforms, following the introduction of a controversial bill in the United States Congress linking illegal mining to insecurity and religious violence in Nigeria.
Key highlights:
Five Republican lawmakers in the US Congress have introduced a proposed legislation titled Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026.
The bill alleges religious persecution and mass atrocities in Nigeria, links illegal mining activities to terrorism financing in parts of the country, and calls on the US Secretary of State to engage Nigerian authorities to counter what it describes as hostile foreign exploitation.
The Chinese Embassy has responded by restating its commitment to lawful operations and cooperation with Nigerian authorities in line with local regulations.
The bill was sponsored by Representatives Riley Moore, Chris Smith, Bill Huizenga, Brian Mast, and Mario Diaz-Balart. According to the sponsors, the proposed legislation seeks to address what they described as worsening religious persecution and organised violence, particularly in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region.
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The lawmakers alleged that certain Chinese nationals involved in illegal mining operations were paying protection money to armed groups. They further claimed that proceeds from illegal mining could be fueling terrorism and religiously motivated attacks, including killings, abductions, destruction of property, and the displacement of communities.
In addition, the sponsors urged the US Secretary of State to work closely with the Nigerian government to confront what they termed foreign exploitation of Nigeria’s natural resources. Some of the lawmakers have previously supported moves to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over religious freedom, a classification that would increase diplomatic pressure and international scrutiny.
Responding to the development, the Chinese Embassy dismissed any suggestion of state-backed wrongdoing and reiterated its respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty. The embassy stated that China supports Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight in the mining sector and promote lawful, transparent operations in line with Nigerian laws.
The diplomatic exchange has drawn attention to the broader issues of illegal mining, foreign investment, and security challenges in Nigeria. Analysts say the debate underscores the need for improved mining governance, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and balanced international engagement that respects Nigeria’s internal processes.
As discussions continue in Washington and Abuja, the focus remains on how Nigeria can curb illegal mining, address security concerns, and protect both its natural resources and its citizens from exploitation and violence.
