- Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai
By Anthony Nwachukwu
China has described as “unfounded” the recent media recirculation of allegations of Chinese infiltration of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
Noting that the claims also alleged that some nationals in Nigeria are engaged in illegal mining activities, including seizing critical mineral resources, hindering the country’s economic and social development, damaging the local ecological environment, and even fueling terrorist activities, it rather called on relevant Nigerian authorities to strengthen governance in the mining sector.
The country 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, adding that 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 – measures that have not only boosted local employment but also enabled Nigeria to retain greater added value, turning resource endowments into tangible development dividends.”
It added 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.”
Against these backgrounds, it insisted that the allegations that Chinese companies are fueling terrorism in Nigeria are completely unfounded, emphasising rather that “Chinese mining companies in Nigeria have themselves been victims of terrorist activities.
“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.”
Calling for a fair and objective reporting of the cooperation and operations of Chinese mining companies in Nigeria, the federation restated its readiness 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.”
