US lawmakers have introduced a bill alleging Chinese illegal mining in Nigeria is funding armed groups and worsening religious violence.
Five US Republican lawmakers have introduced the ‘Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026,’ alleging Chinese nationals involved in illegal mining are paying protection money to armed groups. The bill urges action against what it describes as “systemic religious persecution” in Nigeria.
“The Secretary of State should work with the Government of Nigeria to counteract the hostile foreign exploitation of Chinese illegal mining operations,” the lawmakers stated. Nigerian authorities dispute genocide claims, while the Chinese government has not responded to the allegations.
