The Japanese government has designated the city of Kisarazu as the official “hometown” for Nigerians seeking to live and work in Japan, in a move aimed at deepening cultural diplomacy, promoting economic growth, and enhancing workforce productivity.

The announcement was made on the sidelines of the 9th Tokyo International Conference for African Development (TICAD9), where Japan also unveiled similar hometown designations for Tanzania, Ghana, and Mozambique in Nagai, Sanjo, and Imabari, respectively.

Under the new arrangement, the Japanese government will introduce a special visa category for highly skilled, innovative, and talented Nigerian youth. Artisans and other blue-collar workers willing to upskill will also be eligible to live and work in Kisarazu under the special visa dispensation.
“Through this arrangement, we aim to strengthen exchanges and create a foundation for manpower development that will contribute to economic growth in both Japan and Nigeria,” said Mrs. Florence Akinyemi Adeseke, Nigeria’s Charge d’Affaires and Acting Ambassador to Japan.

The designation of Kisarazu builds on historical ties between Nigeria and the city. The Nigerian Olympic contingent trained in Kisarazu during preparations for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where athletes acclimatised before moving to the Olympic Village.

Mayor Yoshikuni Watanabe of Kisarazu, who received the certificate from the Japanese government alongside Mrs. Adeseke, expressed optimism that the initiative would boost the city’s population and contribute to regional revitalisation efforts.

At TICAD9, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba outlined Japan’s vision for sustainable engagement with Africa, announcing $5.5 billion in new investments across the continent. He emphasised private sector-led growth, youth and women empowerment, and regional integration.
“Japan is providing various cooperation and support for Africa. But first of all, Japan needs to know more about Africa. In creating solutions together, we focus on private sector-led sustainable growth, youth and women, and regional integration and connectivity,” Prime Minister Ishiba said.

The initiative also reflects Japan’s domestic priorities, addressing challenges posed by an ageing population and shrinking agricultural land, while fostering mutually beneficial partnerships with African countries.

By officially connecting Kisarazu with Nigeria, the Japanese government hopes to create lasting cultural, educational, and economic exchanges, reinforcing the city’s role as a hub for African engagement in Japan.