The China Mining Federation of Nigeria has dismissed media reports alleging that Chinese mining companies are infiltrating Nigeria’s solid minerals sector and engaging in illegal activities.
The allegations were contained in a report published on December 11, 2025, titled “Conquest: The Chinese Infiltration of Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Sector.”
The report accused some Chinese nationals of illegal mining, taking control of critical mineral resources, undermining Nigeria’s economic and social development, damaging the environment, and fuelling terrorist activities.
It also called on Nigerian authorities to strengthen governance in the sector.
Covering the period from 2018 to 2025, the report placed particular emphasis on developments since 2022, when Nigeria stepped up efforts to diversify its economy away from oil and gas.
It assessed the scale, patterns and impacts of unlicensed mining activities involving foreign nationals, especially Chinese operators, within the solid minerals sector.
In response, the federation, in a statement issued on Tuesday, described the claims as false and misleading, maintaining that Chinese mining companies operating in Nigeria comply fully with local laws and regulations.
It stated that “Chinese mining companies in Nigeria have always strictly complied with Nigeria’s laws and regulations, in accordance with the guidance of the Chinese government.”
The statement said the companies work closely with Nigerian authorities to strengthen governance in the mining sector and contribute to industrial development.
According to the federation, while operating legally, the firms have invested in local processing facilities and employed Nigerian workers—steps it said have helped boost employment and increase the value Nigeria derives from its mineral resources.
The federation added that the companies have supported local communities and environmental protection efforts, noting that 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.”
Addressing claims that Chinese companies are linked to terrorism, the federation dismissed them outright.
It said, “The allegations that Chinese companies are fuelling terrorism in Nigeria are completely unfounded.” The statement stressed that Chinese mining firms have themselves suffered from insecurity, adding that “Chinese mining companies in Nigeria have themselves been victims of terrorist activities.”
According to the federation, the companies remain committed to working with the Nigerian government on security issues, stating that they “have always supported and remain willing to cooperate with the Nigerian government in safeguarding national security, with the shared aim of operating and living in a secure and stable environment.”
The federation also appealed to Nigerian media and the public to be fair in their reporting. It said it hopes “that the media and friends from all sectors in Nigeria will view and report on the cooperation and operations of Chinese mining companies in an objective and fair manner,” warning against the spread of false information that could harm bilateral relations.
Concluding the statement, the federation said it is ready to continue working with Nigerian authorities and stakeholders to expand cooperation in the mining sector.
It pledged to “work with the Nigerian government and all sectors of society to further deepen mining cooperation, support Nigeria’s economic and social development, and deliver greater benefits to our two peoples.”
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