Chinese Govt Opens Up On Financing Terrorist Groups In Nigeria

The Chinese Government has debunked reports that it is funding terrorist groups to gain access to Nigerian mining sites.

Recall that a British news platform, The Times, had accused Xi Jinping’s government of financing terrorists to access Nigeria’s mineral resources.

The report dated April 15, 2023, and titled, ‘Chinese ‘bribed Nigerian militants for access to vast mineral reserves’ claimed that “Beijing could be indirectly funding terror” in Nigeria.

But reacting in a statement, the Chinese Embassy said that it would never be involved in any form of terrorism financing.

It said the report is “based on unverified, unclear and unproven information, to which we have to express our strong dissatisfaction and objection.

“The Chinese government, as well as the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, have always encouraged and urged the Chinese companies and nationals in Nigeria to abide by the laws and regulations of Nigeria, and to implement the local rules and guidance on labour, environment, health, and safety, etc., and would continue their efforts in this regard.

“The Chinese government was and would never be involved in any form of funding terrorism.

“The allegations contained in the report were 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.

“We welcome international partners to join our efforts in good faith but would reject any intention or action that would smear our cooperation.”