The Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) is looking to establish strategic partnerships with Nigerian startups, particularly within the technology sector, as part of a larger commitment to the Nigerian economy. Takeshi Oku, JETRO’s Managing Director and Trade Commissioner, underscored Japan’s dedication to Nigeria at the opening of the Lagos International Trade Fair on November 1.
Oku highlighted Nigeria’s influential position in West Africa, describing the country as a “gateway” to the region and explaining why Japanese businesses are prioritizing Nigeria as part of their African expansion. “Nigeria is the gateway to West Africa, so we concentrate on the Nigerian market as part of our commitment to Africa,” he said. Oku also pointed to the strong trade ties between Japan and Nigeria, emphasizing the substantial trade balance between the two countries.
This year’s 10-day Lagos International Trade Fair, themed “Connecting Businesses, Creating Value,” has drawn approximately 41 Japanese companies and marks the ninth consecutive year of Japanese participation, showcasing a rising interest in Nigeria’s market potential.
Oku also introduced a new JETRO initiative aimed at fostering collaboration between Japanese and Nigerian businesses, particularly in technology and related sectors. “One of our missions is to see that startups in Nigeria and Japan make beneficial collaborations in areas of technology and others,” he noted.
Japanese companies are already active in Nigeria, especially in the automotive, food, and beverage industries. Oku cited Ajinomoto, a popular Japanese seasoning brand with a local factory, as an example of Japan’s investment in the Nigerian economy. He also shared that a Japanese beverage company will soon open a factory in Ogun State, further demonstrating Japan’s commitment to Nigeria.
With JETRO leading this renewed focus, Japanese and Nigerian enterprises are set to create valuable partnerships, especially in technology, benefiting both economies as they move toward deeper collaboration.