Chinese Mining Federation, others refute claims of fuelling terrorism, Illegal Mining
Chinese Mining Companies and China Mining Federation of Nigeria have refuted allegations of fueling terrorism and illegal Infiltration in Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Sector.
The Federation in statement made available to Business Africa Digest in Abuja noted the recirculation by certain media outlets of a report alleging the so-called “Chinese infiltration” of Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Sector.
The report claims that some Chinese nationals in Nigeria are engaged in illegal mining activities, seizing critical mineral resources, hindering the country’s economic and social development, damaging the local ecological environment, and even fueling terrorist activities. It also calls on relevant Nigerian authorities to strengthen governance in the mining sector.
“The Federation hereby solemnly states 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”.
The statement also said the Chinese firms while conducting business in compliance with the law, also 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. 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”.
It noted that the allegations that Chinese companies are fueling terrorism in Nigeria are completely unfounded, adding that Chinese mining companies in Nigeria have themselves been victims of terrorist activities, just as 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.
The Federation hopes that the media and friends from all sectors in Nigeria will view and report on the cooperation and operations of Chinese mining companies in an objective and fair manner, and will not allow themselves to be used by those with ill motives to spread false information and undermine the cooperation and friendship between our two countries. The Federation stands ready 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.
