NIGERIA and China have agreed to collaborate in addressing the growing number of financial crimes involving Chinese nationals in the West African nation. The decision follows a meeting between Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai and Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja, as reported by Voice of America (VOA).
During discussions, Dunhai expressed regret over the increasing trend of Chinese citizens engaging in financial offenses and reassured Nigerian authorities that Beijing is ready to deploy delegates to assist in investigations. The Chinese envoy, however, emphasized that while tackling financial crimes is crucial, Nigerian authorities must ensure the rights of Chinese nationals are protected during the process.
Hundreds of Chinese nationals arrested
Since November, Nigerian security forces have arrested at least 400 Chinese nationals suspected of cyber fraud, telecom scams, and illegal mining. Many of them are now facing trial, according to VOA.
Despite the crackdown, political analyst Chukwudi Odoeme raised concerns about China’s involvement, warning that it could undermine Nigeria’s judicial process.
‘The collaboration looks good, but Nigeria must be cautious,’ Odoeme told VOA. ‘China’s influence may result in the political release of suspects rather than their prosecution through Nigeria’s legal system.’
Economic ties and transparency concerns
China is Nigeria’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade surpassing $5bn in 2023. Chinese firms accounted for 23 percent of Nigeria’s total imports in the first quarter of the year. However, some critics argue that certain Chinese nationals are exploiting trade routes and immigration loopholes to enter Nigeria illegally and engage in criminal activities.
Public affairs analyst Jaye Gaskia questioned the transparency of the collaboration, telling VOA that Nigeria must be vigilant to avoid compromising its sovereignty.
‘Who controls the prosecution process? Will China exert undue influence?’ Gaskia asked. ‘The public deserves full transparency to ensure that Nigeria’s national interest remains protected.’
Debt and diplomatic considerations
Nigeria currently owes China more than $5bn—more than the total bilateral loans owed to all other countries combined. Meanwhile, Nigeria is seeking China’s backing to join the G20 and obtain a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
Despite diplomatic interests, political analyst Rotimi Olawale told VOA that Nigeria’s legal independence must remain intact.
‘I don’t think Nigeria’s $5bn debt to China should interfere with how criminal cases are handled,’ Olawale said. ‘This is about upholding the law, not politics.’
Previously, Nigeria’s parliament called for the mass deportation of undocumented Chinese migrants. As both nations move forward with their cooperation, striking a balance between law enforcement and diplomatic relations will be crucial.
