The United States has introduced a bill aimed at countering Chinese mining activities in Nigeria, linking the move to efforts to address religious freedom violations and extremist activities by terrorist groups.
The proposal is part of the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, co-sponsored by Representatives Riley Moore (R-West Virginia) and Chris Smith (R-New Jersey). According to an announcement via X, Rep. Moore highlighted security concerns surrounding certain mining operations in Nigeria, particularly illegal sites that allegedly fund violent extremism through payments of “protection money” to insurgent groups.
The legislation instructs the US Secretary of State to assess whether specific Fulani militias qualify as foreign terrorist organizations under US law. It also emphasizes the delivery of humanitarian aid to Nigeria’s Middle Belt through vetted faith-based and non-governmental organizations.
Under the bill, individuals and networks, both domestic and foreign, that support these militias would be subject to investigation and accountability measures. The legislation calls for technical support to the Nigerian government to reduce violence, including disarmament programs and counter-terrorism cooperation aimed at eliminating groups that pose a threat to US security.
Moreover, the bill directs collaboration with Nigerian authorities to mitigate destabilizing practices tied to Chinese mining operations, particularly the alleged payment of protection fees to armed Fulani groups.
Previous reports indicate that the US may implement additional measures such as visa bans and asset freezes against individuals and groups involved in religious freedom violations and extremism in Nigeria. If enacted, the bill would require the Secretary of State to take further determinations and actions consistent with its provisions.
