Chinese Mining Companies ‘Funding Fulani Militias’ In Nigeria – US Bill Claims

A new bill in the United States House of Representatives proposes that the US Secretary of State work with the Nigerian government to address what it describes as the “hostile foreign exploitation” of illegal Chinese mining operations.

China has denied any wrongdoing by its mining companies.

The proposed legislation, titled the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, was introduced on Tuesday by five Republican lawmakers: Chris Smith, Riley Moore (the bill’s author), Brian Mast, Mario Diaz-Balart, and Bill Huizenga.

The bill specifically targets illegal Chinese mining operations for their alleged role in fuelling local instability. It claims that some Chinese mining companies have been paying “protection money” to Fulani militias to secure access to mineral-rich lands, particularly in northern and central Nigeria. By doing so, the bill suggests, these companies are indirectly financing groups responsible for mass atrocities, kidnappings, and religious persecution.

Under the Act, the US Secretary of State would evaluate whether certain Fulani-ethnic militias should be designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisations. The legislation also mandates that the Secretary work with the Nigerian government to curb these illegal mining operations and eliminate the practice of paying protection money.

China denies allegations

In response, the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria on Thursday called the claims “completely baseless,” insisting that Chinese companies in Nigeria comply with all laws and regulations.

The embassy said, “We express our firm opposition and strong dissatisfaction,” and urged media organisations to stop spreading “false information.”

It added that the vast majority of Chinese mining companies in Nigeria operate lawfully, contribute to local communities, protect the environment, and support economic development and job creation.

“The Chinese side has always respected Nigeria’s sovereignty and supports Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen mining governance in accordance with the law. Chinese mining enterprises are victims, not perpetrators, of terrorist activities. They have consistently supported the Nigerian government in safeguarding national security,” the embassy said. (daily trust)