The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has announced the cancellation of its ‘JICA Africa Hometown’ initiative, attributing the decision to “misunderstandings and confusion” surrounding the program. The announcement came after reports suggested that Japan would create a special visa category for Nigerians wishing to relocate to Kisarazu, a city designated as a “hometown” for Nigerians and other Africans.

In a statement released on Thursday, JICA explained that the terminology used in the initiative led to misinterpretations that placed an undue burden on the four municipalities involved. The agency emphasized that while the initiative aimed to promote cultural and educational exchanges, it was not intended to facilitate immigration.

The initial confusion arose when the Nigerian government announced that Japan would introduce a special visa for young, skilled Nigerians. However, the Japanese government quickly denied this claim, clarifying that the initiative was solely focused on fostering cultural exchanges, not offering immigration benefits.

JICA expressed regret for the situation and stated that it would continue to support other forms of international exchange without aiming to promote immigration.