Japan Refutes Claims of Special Visa Scheme for Nigerians in Cultural Exchange
Japan has denied that its “Africa Hometown” exchange with Nigeria includes work visa offers.
Officials clarified the program is focused on cultural cooperation, not immigration or labour opportunities abroad.
Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has denied reports that its cultural exchange program with Nigeria includes the issuance of special visas for skilled workers.
In a statement released on August 26, 2025, Japanese officials clarified that the “Africa Hometown” initiative, launched during the TICAD9 conference in Yokohama, is strictly designed to promote volunteer exchanges and cultural cooperation, not immigration or work opportunities.
The denial came after Nigerian government representatives suggested that the program, which involves Kisarazu city as a partner, offered pathways for Nigerian professionals to access Japanese work visas. Japanese officials insisted this was misleading, stressing that the initiative was not linked to labour migration.
The clarification comes at a time when Nigeria faces mounting economic hardship and rising youth emigration, fueling interest in overseas opportunities.
Observers note that while Japan has a shrinking workforce and increasing demand for foreign labour, Tokyo maintains highly restrictive immigration policies. By contrast, Nigeria’s government has been under pressure to create opportunities for young professionals amid high unemployment and a worsening cost-of-living crisis.
The controversy underscores the sensitivities around migration narratives in both countries. For Japan, the focus remains on soft diplomacy and cultural ties, while for many Nigerians, any initiative linked to international partners is often viewed through the lens of job prospects abroad.
For now, the Africa Hometown program will continue in its original form, fostering people-to-people connections, but without any attached visa privileges for skilled Nigerian workers.