Dear friends and partners in Nigeria,
Warm greetings from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Nigeria Office. It is a great pleasure to reach out to all of you through this website.
Nigeria, often called the “Giant of Africa,” is a country blessed with remarkable energy, creativity, and potential. Although I have just arrived in Nigeria and have not yet visited other states, I have had the privilege of meeting many Nigerians in Abuja, including people from across the country. I am deeply inspired by their resilience, optimism, and strong sense of community.
Soon after my arrival, on October 1st, I was warmly greeted by a petrol station attendant who cheerfully said, “Happy 65th Independence Anniversary!” It was a heartfelt moment that reminded me how proud Nigerians are of their country and how deeply they celebrate its history and progress since independence in 1960.
With more than 230 million people representing over 250 ethnic groups and speaking more than 500 languages, Nigeria stands as a proud example of unity in diversity. Its rich culture, colorful fashion, delicious cuisine, vibrant music, and dynamic art scene—including Nollywood and Afrobeats—make Nigeria a source of inspiration across Africa and beyond.
At JICA, we believe that Nigeria’s strength lies in its people—their ideas, determination, and spirit of innovation. We are honored to work side by side with Nigerian partners who are driving progress in every sector: from agriculture and health to education, energy, and entrepreneurship.
JICA established its Nigeria Office in 1977. Since then, we have been working together with the Government of Nigeria, local communities, and private-sector partners to build a better future. Today, our cooperation focuses on three key areas:
- 1 . Building a foundation for sustainable economic growth – supporting agricultural development, startup ecosystem growth, and improvements in energy supply and infrastructure.
- 2 . Improvement of inclusive and robust social systems – strengthening health and medical systems, improving nutrition and sanitation, and expanding access to quality education.
- 3 . Promoting peace and stability – supporting humanitarian assistance, reconstruction, and development in the North-East and other affected regions.
We are also encouraged by the many young Nigerians leading change—innovators, entrepreneurs, and professionals who are addressing social challenges through creativity and technology. Their efforts give us confidence in Nigeria’s bright future.
Given this situation, Japan and Nigeria launched of the Co-creation for common agenda initiative for Nigeria, titled “Solution of social challenges and building economic resilience by supporting startups”. Through this initiative, we intend to promote actions for Nigeria's industrial development in collaborating with private companies and further deepen relations with the country.
JICA remains committed to deepening our friendship and collaboration with the people of Nigeria. Together, we aim to advance inclusive growth, strengthen human capacity, and contribute to peace and prosperity in this great nation.
Thank you for your continued partnership and trust.
October 2025
Chief Representative, JICA Nigeria Office
ISHIGAME Keiji
scroll