The Chinese government has denied being engaged in the spread of terrorist operations in Nigeria.
The remark was made in response to a report in the British daily The Times alleging that Chinese mining industry employees were funding terrorist organisations in some sections of Nigeria in order to obtain access to the country’s mineral resources.
The Times claims to have submitted its research to a team of analysts in Lagos.
China, however, refuted the allegations in a statement made by its embassy in Abuja on Monday via its Twitter handle, calling the reports “irresponsible.”
The Chinese Mission stated, “Our attention has been brought to a media report titled “Chinese bribed Nigerian terrorists for access to massive mineral deposits,” published on April 15, 2023 by The Times of the United Kingdom.
“This report, claiming that “Beijing may be indirectly sponsoring terror” in Nigeria, is based on unverified, ambiguous, and unproven information, and we must express our strong dissatisfaction and objection.”
“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 Nigerian laws and regulations, and to implement local rules and guidance on labour, environment, health and safety, among others, and will continue to do so.”
“The Chinese government was and will never be involved in any form of terrorism funding.” The claims in the report were completely irresponsible and unethical, and the report’s intent is gravely called into question.”
China also noted that bilateral cooperation between China and Nigeria had resulted in concrete advantages to bilateral ties and both nations’ well-being.
“We will continue to collaborate with the Nigerian government on development and security issues.”
“We welcome international partners to join our efforts in good faith, but we will reject any intention or action that would smear our cooperation.”
