By Obiabin Onukwugha
The China Mining Federation of Nigeria has dismissed allegations that Chinese mining companies have infiltrated Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, thereby engaging in illegal activities and fueling terrorism in the country.
The federation described the claims as false and misleading, while restating its commitment to lawful mining practices in the country.
The federation made the denial in a statement issued on Tuesday, insisting that it had observed the recirculation of media reports accusing some Chinese nationals of illegal mining, seizure of critical mineral resources, environmental degradation and alleged involvement in terrorist activities.
The denial is coming few days after a civil society organization, Renevlyn Development Initiative ((RDI), released a that revealed massive illegal mining of solid minerals in Nigeria by some Chinese nationals resulting in environmental degradation and revenue losses to the country.
The report titled: “Silent Conquest: The Chinese Infiltration of Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Sector”, released at a media event in Lagos on Monday.
This report exposed what RDI described as a quiet, but widespread exploitation of Nigeria’s mineral wealth.
The report, was based on field visits, stakeholder interviews, and years of data analysis between 2018 and 2025. It revealed how illegal mining, much of which involves foreign nationals has continued unchecked in both northern and southern Nigeria.
Speaking at the unveiling of the report,.Executive Director, Renevlyn Development Initiative, Philip Jakpor, noted that while the group supports legitimate investment, the report raises serious concerns about the revenue losses and human cost of the illegal activities on host communities who are often excluded from decision-making, left with degraded land, polluted water sources, and little or no economic benefit.
The federation in the statement, described the allegations as completely unfounded, stressing that Chinese mining firms operating in Nigeria have also been victims of terrorist attacks.
It said Chinese companies in Nigeria have consistently supported efforts by the Federal Government to safeguard national security and remain willing to cooperate fully to ensure a safe and stable operating environment.
“Chinese mining companies in Nigeria have always strictly complied with Nigeria’s laws and regulations, in accordance with the guidance of the Chinese government.
While conducting business in compliance with the law, these companies actively cooperate with Nigerian government departments to strengthen mining governance.
“They have also responded proactively to Nigeria’s need for industrial transformation and upgrading in the mining sector by making investments, building local factories and hiring Nigerian workers.
“These measures have boosted local employment and enabled Nigeria to retain greater added value, turning resource endowments into tangible development dividends.
“By giving back to local communities, fulfilling social responsibilities, and protecting the natural environment, these companies have made positive contributions to deepening China-Nigeria mining cooperation,” the statement read in part
The federation reaffirmed its readiness to work closely with the Nigerian government and other stakeholders to deepen cooperation in the mining sector, support Nigeria’s economic and social development and ensure that the partnership delivers tangible benefits to both countries.
