China denies funding terrorism to gain access to Nigerian mineral reserves

Story from Vivian DANIEL, Abuja

The Chinese government has denied allegations that it is funding terrorist groups in Nigeria to secure access to mineral reserves.

A recent report by The Times, a British newspaper, claimed that Beijing could be indirectly funding terror in Africa’s largest economy through bribes and illegal transactions.

The report alleged that some Chinese nationals who have worked informally as miners in Zamfara also act as runners for militant groups in the state and other parts of the northwest zone.

However, in a statement responding to the allegations, the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria said that the report was based on “unproven information” and that the allegations were “totally irresponsible and unethical”.

The Embassy reiterated that China is committed to addressing development and security-related issues in Nigeria.

“The Chinese Government, as well as the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, have always encouraged and urged Chinese companies and nationals in Nigeria to abide by the laws and regulations of Nigeria, and to implement local rules and guidance on labor, environment, health, and safety, etc. We will continue our efforts in this regard,” the statement said.

“The Chinese Government would never be involved in any form of funding terrorism. The allegations contained in the report are totally irresponsible and unethical, and the intention of the report is seriously questioned. For the past decades, the bilateral cooperation between China and Nigeria has brought tangible benefits to our bilateral ties and the well-being of the two peoples. We will continue to work with the Nigerian government to promote development and address security issues.”

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