Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Matsuyama Kazuyoshi
Japan-Nigeria trade relations poised for growth – Japanese Ambassador
The Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Matsuyama Kazuyoshi, has disclosed that the trade relations between Japan and Nigeria currently stand at $10 billion but emphasized the need for further improvement.
Speaking at the 64th Birthday celebration of the Emperor of Japan, Naruhito, Ambassador Kazuyoshi, expressed optimism about the potential for expanding trade and investment between the two countries.
“While the current trade volume is significant, it does not fully reflect the potential of both nations,” he stated.
“Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources and talented youth present vast growth opportunities. We must work to enhance trade and investment to harness this potential fully,” he added.
Ambassador Kazuyoshi highlighted Japan’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria despite the challenges faced by both nations.
He noted Japan’s advanced technology and Nigeria’s rich human and natural resources as complementary factors that can drive mutual growth and prosperity.
He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in overcoming obstacles, citing the Year of the Dragon in Japan as a symbol of courage, strength, and wisdom.
The Ambassador also announced scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students to study in Japan and highlighted existing exchange programs between the two countries.
He revealed that 51 Japanese companies are currently operating in Nigeria and reiterated Japan’s willingness to address challenges inhibiting Nigeria’s investment climate.
In response, the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Hon Benjamin Kalu, echoed the call for strengthening Japan-Nigeria relations.
He assured the Japanese Ambassador and investors of the National Assembly’s commitment to removing obstacles to doing business in Nigeria through legislative interventions.
Kalu emphasized the importance of leveraging Japanese technology to add value to Nigeria’s primary products and underscored the government’s readiness to facilitate legislative reforms to attract more investments.
He affirmed the National Assembly’s resolve to create an enabling environment for investors, pledging to streamline laws and regulations to instil confidence in potential investors.