The government of Japan has named the city of Kisarazu as the official hometown for Nigerians willing to live and work in the country, as part of a strategic initiative to deepen cultural diplomacy, strengthen economic ties, and enhance workforce productivity.
Announced on Thursday at the sidelines of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), the partnership introduces a special visa category for highly skilled, innovative, and talented young Nigerians seeking opportunities in Kisarazu. Nigerian artisans and blue-collar workers ready to upskill will also benefit under the scheme.
In the same ceremony, the Japan International Cooperation Agency designated Nagai in Yamagata Prefecture as the hometown of Tanzania, Sanjo in Niigata Prefecture as the hometown of Ghana, and Imabari in Ehime Prefecture as the hometown of Mozambique.
Nigeria’s Acting Ambassador to Japan, Mrs. Florence Akinyemi Adeseke, and Kisarazu Mayor Yoshikuni Watanabe received the official certificate of designation from the Japanese government.
The initiative aims to build two-way exchanges in manpower development, supporting regional revitalisation in Japan while contributing to economic growth in Nigeria and the other participating African nations. Kisarazu previously hosted Nigeria’s athletes during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, where the city served as their official pre-games training base.
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Speaking at TICAD9, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced $5.5 billion in new investments for Africa, stressing the importance of private sector-led sustainable growth, youth and women empowerment, and regional integration. He also highlighted Japan’s demographic challenges, calling on African nations to collaborate in co-creating solutions.
“Japan is providing various cooperation and support for Africa. But first of all, Japan needs to know more about Africa,” Prime Minister Ishiba said. “This co-creation is central to TICAD9 as we pursue mutual growth and stronger ties.”
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