Background & Initial Claim
During the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), held from August 20–22, 2025, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) unveiled its new “Africa Hometown” initiative. Under this program, four Japanese cities were each paired with an African nation—Kisarazu (Nigeria), Nagai (Tanzania), Sanjo (Ghana), and Imabari (Mozambique)—to deepen cultural, educational, and people-to-people exchanges.
However, a statement from Nigeria’s State House, signed by Abiodun Oladunjoye, Director of Information, suggested that this initiative included the creation of a special visa category for “highly skilled, innovative, and talented young Nigerians” wishing to live and work in Kisarazu. The statement further indicated that upskilled artisans and blue-collar workers would benefit from this “special dispensation visa.”
Japanese Government’s Response
Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs swiftly refuted the claim. In official communication, they clarified:
- There are no plans to open immigration, issue special visas, or give preferential residency to Nigerians (or other Africans) through the JICA program.
- The “Africa Hometown” initiative is strictly designed for cultural and developmental exchange via activities like organizing exchange events with JICA overseas cooperation volunteers.
Further reaffirmations came from Japanese officials and media, underscoring that the program was about community-level interactions and not about facilitating migration or employment.
Nigerian Administration Retracts Claim
On August 27, 2025, the Tinubu government issued a correction. The updated statement, again signed by Abiodun Oladunjoye, clarified that JICA only designated Kisarazu as the “Hometown for Nigeria”—and that no special visa category for Nigerians was mentioned or negotiated.
The correction stated:
“Correction: JICA Designates City of Kisarazu as Hometown for Nigeria.”
It reiterated the true purpose of the initiative: building cultural ties and strengthening existing partnerships. The earlier assertion about immigration and special visas was formally withdrawn.
Political Fallout
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) criticized the Tinubu administration, accusing it of prioritizing “positive headlines” over accuracy. ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, called the episode an embarrassment and urged the government to ensure proper fact-checking before making public declarations.
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