A member of the United States Congress, Riley Moore, has alleged that Chinese nationals are operating illegal rare earth mineral mining sites in Nigeria and paying protection money to terrorist groups.
Moore made the claim after submitting a report to U.S. President Donald Trump, detailing what he described as the ongoing persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
According to the lawmaker, a key issue missing from broader international coverage is the alleged involvement of Chinese operators in illicit mining activities. He claimed the proceeds from these operations are being funneled to “radical Islamic terrorists,” who then use the funds to finance attacks against Christian communities.
“The Chinese are running illegal rare earth mineral mining operations in Nigeria. They are paying protection money to Islamic terrorists,” Moore stated, adding that the situation “cannot continue.”
Rare earth minerals are critical components in advanced technologies, including electronics, renewable energy systems, and defense equipment, making them strategically important globally.
Moore did not immediately provide specific evidence publicly linking particular Chinese companies or entities to the alleged operations.
Security challenges in parts of Nigeria have long been a concern for both local authorities and international observers, particularly in regions affected by insurgency and banditry.
