China has rejected claims by a British news outlet that it funded Nigerian militants to gain access to the country’s mineral resources. The Chinese government denies any involvement in terrorism financing and urges Chinese companies and nationals in Nigeria to comply with local laws and regulations.
The Chinese embassy in Nigeria has expressed its strong objection to the report, which it says is based on unverified, unclear, and unproven information.
The Chinese government insists that its cooperation with Nigeria has brought benefits to both countries and welcomes international partners to join efforts in promoting development and addressing security issues, while rejecting any action that would tarnish its cooperation.
ALSO READ: Uncovering the genetic diversity of the great wall of China through ancient DNA
A report by The Times had claimed that Chinese officials and companies had bribed Nigerian militants to secure access to the country’s vast mineral reserves, and that this may indirectly be funding terrorism in Nigeria.
China’s denial of these allegations is significant given its growing economic and political influence in Nigeria and other African nations.
The Chinese government has been actively seeking to expand its investment and trade relations with African countries in recent years, and has been accused of engaging in debt-trap diplomacy and other forms of exploitation in some cases.
