Abuja, July 27, 2025
The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged abandonment of a group of Nigerian miners in the Central African Republic by a Chinese mining company.
The embassy’s action follows the circulation of a viral video on social media showing distressed Nigerian workers claiming they were deserted without pay, food, or proper documentation by their Chinese employer in the foreign country.
In an official statement released in Abuja, the Chinese diplomatic mission stated it is taking the matter seriously and has initiated a formal inquiry to verify the authenticity of the claims and identify the individuals involved. The embassy reiterated China’s commitment to upholding fair labor practices and ensuring that its citizens and businesses operating abroad comply with international labor standards and local laws.
The video, which sparked outrage among Nigerians, captured some of the stranded workers appealing to the Nigerian government and the international community for urgent intervention. Many of them said they were lured with promises of well-paying jobs but ended up facing harsh conditions and abandonment.
In response, the Nigerian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said it has commenced diplomatic engagement with its counterpart in the Central African Republic and is working with the Nigerian embassy in Bangui to ensure the safe return of the affected citizens.
Authorities also warned Nigerians to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of overseas job offers, especially those involving travel to conflict-prone regions or underregulated sectors.
Both the Chinese and Nigerian governments have pledged to collaborate closely in resolving the issue, with assurances of justice for the affected miners and appropriate action against any company found culpable.
