Tokyo, Japan – August 22, 2025 – In a landmark move to strengthen cultural ties and deepen economic cooperation, the Government of Japan has designated the city of Kisarazu as the official hometown for Nigerians seeking to live and work in the country.
The announcement was made on Thursday during the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), underscoring Japan’s commitment to advancing people-to-people diplomacy while addressing workforce development needs.
According to Abiodun Oladunjoye, Director of Information at the State House, the initiative will include the introduction of a special visa category tailored for highly skilled young Nigerians, as well as artisans and blue-collar workers seeking opportunities to upgrade their skills in Japan.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) also designated three additional hometowns for African nations: Nagai in Yamagata Prefecture for Tanzania, Sanjo in Niigata Prefecture for Ghana, and Imabari in Ehime Prefecture for Mozambique.
At an official ceremony, Nigeria’s Acting Ambassador to Japan, Mrs. Florence Akinyemi Adeseke, joined Kisarazu Mayor Yoshikuni Watanabe to receive the certificate of designation from the Japanese government.
Officials emphasized that the initiative will foster manpower development, promote bilateral cultural exchange, and support regional revitalization by attracting new populations to Japanese cities.
Kisarazu has a history of engagement with Nigeria, having hosted Team Nigeria during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where athletes trained in the city prior to the Games.
Speaking at TICAD9, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced $5.5 billion in new investments across Africa, with a focus on private sector-led growth, youth and women empowerment, and regional integration. He highlighted the importance of African cooperation as Japan works to address the challenges of an ageing population and shrinking agricultural land.
