The Japanese government officially recognized Kisarazu as the hometown for Nigerians who want to live and work in Japan. This marks a major step in strengthening cultural relations and economic cooperation.
The announcement came Thursday in Yokohama during the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9). Japan plans to create a special visa category for talented young Nigerians, skilled craftsmen, and blue-collar workers eager to advance their skills.
The agreement aims to address Japan’s demographic challenges, boost worker productivity, and promote cross-cultural interaction.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) also announced hometowns for other African nations: Imabari (Mozambique), Sanjo (Ghana), and Nagai (Tanzania).
Mr. Yoshikuni Watanabe, Kisarazu’s mayor, and Mrs. Florence Akinyemi Adeseke, Nigeria’s acting ambassador to Japan, accepted the official designation certificate.
Japan’s local partnership policy aims to improve municipal cooperation, strengthen relationships, and develop human capital. Officials expect the designation to boost population growth and regional redevelopment in these cities.
Kisarazu has maintained a unique bond with Nigeria since hosting Team Nigeria during their pre-Games training camp before the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba highlighted Japan’s commitment to mutual understanding, co-creation, and locally led development at TICAD9. He announced a $5.5 billion investment in Africa.
He identified three key collaboration areas: regional integration, youth and women empowerment, and sustainable growth driven by the private sector. The prime minister urged deeper cooperation with African nations to address shared challenges, including Japan’s aging population and shrinking farmland.
He said, “Japan is providing various cooperation and support for Africa. We must embrace co-creation through private sector growth, youth and women empowerment, and regional integration.”
