The Chinese government has initiated talks with Nigerian authorities following the recent detention of several Chinese nationals involved in cybercrime and illegal mining. The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria confirmed via email to Sunday PUNCH that it is in active communication with Nigerian law enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), to ensure that the investigations adhere to proper legal procedures.
The embassy reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts in tackling cybercrime and illegal mining, as Nigerian law enforcement intensifies its crackdown on illegal activities involving foreign nationals. It emphasized that cybersecurity is a global issue requiring international collaboration and reiterated China’s strong stance against cybercrime, vowing to work closely with Nigerian authorities to enhance security efforts.
Furthermore, the embassy called on Chinese citizens in Nigeria to comply strictly with local laws and avoid any illegal activities. It also emphasized that no country is immune to cybersecurity challenges, and that China stands in solidarity with Nigeria and other nations in fighting cross-border cybercrimes. The embassy further stated that it remains in close contact with Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, EFCC, NCC, and other relevant authorities to assist in the ongoing investigations.
“Cybersecurity is a global challenge that no nation can tackle alone. The Chinese government remains firmly committed to cooperating with Nigeria and other countries to combat cybercrime and promote a secure and sustainable security framework. The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria urges all Chinese citizens to comply with local laws and refrain from engaging in unlawful activities,” the embassy said.
Nigeria has intensified its crackdown on cybercrime and illegal mining, with over 419 foreign nationals arrested in the last six months as law enforcement agencies step up efforts to address these crimes. A global report published in April 2024 ranked Nigeria as the fifth-largest source of cybercrime, following Russia, Ukraine, China, and the United States. The World Cybercrime Index, compiled by researchers from the University of Oxford and the University of New South Wales, identified Nigeria as one of the world’s major hotspots for cybercrime. Other countries in the top 10 include Romania, North Korea, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and India.
Illegal mining has also emerged as a significant concern, especially within the extractive sector, with several arrests of Chinese and West African nationals in recent months. Notably, on August 29, 2024, the EFCC arrested five Chinese nationals in Akwa Ibom State for illegal mining. On September 15, 2024, another five Chinese nationals were detained in the same state for similar activities. On October 2, 2024, six foreigners from Burkina Faso and Niger were arrested by the Zamfara State Police Command for illegal mining and banditry.
Later, on October 28, three Chinese nationals were arrested in Nasarawa State for illegal mining. Law enforcement agencies have also stepped up efforts against cybercrime. On November 4, 2024, 113 foreign nationals, mostly from China and Malaysia, were arrested for suspected cybercrimes and hacking activities. On December 10, 2024, the EFCC detained 193 individuals, primarily Chinese nationals, in Lagos State, allegedly operating from a seven-story building used as a cybercrime training center. On January 21, 2025, the Nigeria Immigration Service arrested 90 foreign nationals in Rivers State on charges of cybercrime.
Retired ambassador Rasheed Akinkuolie pointed out that Nigeria’s weak and centralized policing structure makes it easier for international criminal networks to operate within the country, with local accomplices and corrupt law enforcement officials complicating matters. He advocated for the establishment of state police, which would be better equipped to address local crime and work alongside federal police focused on transnational crimes, including cybercrime, arms, and drug trafficking.
“The security system in Nigeria is inadequate, making it easy for international criminal groups to operate freely, often with the support of local accomplices and corrupt officials. Illegal mining is even fueling insurgency in Nigeria, with foreign nationals, particularly from Asia, operating in areas controlled by terrorists. The proceeds from these criminal activities are shared with terror groups. A decentralized police system at the state and local levels is essential to effectively tackle these crimes,” Akinkuolie stated.
Another former ambassador, Ogbole Amedu-Ode, suggested that Nigeria might have created an environment conducive to such criminal activities. He noted that the significant number of foreign nationals arrested for illegal activities in the country could indicate that Nigeria’s policies and environment may be attracting such offenders. Amedu-Ode pointed to Nigeria’s strict enforcement measures during the military regime of former President Muhammadu Buhari, particularly the death penalty for drug trafficking, which he believes helped reduce drug-related crimes and earned Nigeria greater international respect.
“During Buhari’s military regime, when drug trafficking was punishable by death, the incidence of drug crimes was significantly reduced, and Nigeria gained greater international respect. Nigerian travelers were no longer profiled, unlike the current situation,” Amedu-Ode added.
