U.S. Lawmakers Accuse China of Terrorism Ties in Nigeria

The article discusses allegations made by U.S. lawmakers against China regarding its involvement in illegal mining operations that purportedly fund terrorism in Nigeria. This follows a violent attack on a joint security patrol team in Keterigi, Niger State, which occurred at 12:30 PM, resulting in the burning of a patrol vehicle belonging to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Suberu Siyaka Aniviy, the NSCDC state command, condemned the attack, labeling it a criminal and barbaric act that undermines Nigeria's economic stability. The joint patrol team, comprising NSCDC personnel and the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), was engaged in routine operations to curb illegal mining activities.

Concurrently, U.S. lawmakers, including Rilei Moor and Chris Smith, are advancing a bill titled the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2026, aimed at addressing ongoing religious persecution in Nigeria. The Chinese embassy in Nigeria has rejected the allegations, asserting that China has no links to terrorism financing.