US Bill Proposes Sanctions Over Alleged Chinese Mining Ties to Fulani Militias in Nigeria

A newly introduced bill in the United States House of Representatives seeks action against what lawmakers describe as illegal Chinese mining operations in Nigeria, alleging that proceeds from these activities are used to finance armed Fulani militias.

The proposed legislation, formally titled the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, was introduced on Tuesday by five Republican lawmakers: Chris Smith, Riley Moore (the bill’s primary author), Brian Mast, Mario Diaz-Balart, and Bill Huizenga .

According to the sponsors, certain illegal Chinese mining networks in Nigeria are engaged in what the bill terms the “destabilizing practice of paying protection money to Fulani militias” . The legislation directs the U.S. Secretary of State to collaborate with the Nigerian government to counter this alleged hostile foreign exploitation linked to mining operations .

Clauses 10 and 11 of the bill propose that the Secretary of State consider extending technical assistance to Nigeria aimed at curbing and ultimately eliminating violence perpetrated by armed Fulani militias. This includes support for disarmament initiatives and enhanced counter-terrorism cooperation focused on neutralizing Foreign Terrorist Organizations that may threaten U.S. interests . The bill also calls for joint efforts with Nigerian authorities to address illegal mining activities and their alleged financial connections to militia groups .

Beyond bilateral measures, the legislation recommends that the U.S. Department of State engage international partners specifically France, Hungary, and the United Kingdom to bolster initiatives promoting religious freedom and peace in Nigeria . Additionally, the Secretary of State would be required to assess whether certain “Fulani-ethnic militias” meet the statutory criteria for designation as Foreign Terrorist Organizations .

The proposed legislation follows a 2023 investigation by The Times of London, which alleged that some Chinese nationals operating in Nigeria’s mining sector particularly in Zamfara and other northwestern states were implicated in illicit payments benefiting armed groups, thereby potentially fueling regional insecurity .