Kisarazu and Nigeria spark a firestorm! Discussing the characteristics of Nigerians
In August 2024, Kisarazu City in Chiba Prefecture was recognized as the hometown of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). However, this news, which was meant to bring about mutual cooperation, unfortunately led to great misunderstanding and confusion.
If you thought, "My town is going to be taken over by barbaric Africans," you would be terrified.
A controversy born from a misunderstanding
False information about "accepting immigrants" spread on social media, and Kisarazu City was inundated with over 1,000 inquiries of protest. The cause of this confusion was the discrepancy between the Nigerian government's announcement that "the Japanese government will create a special visa for talented and skilled young Nigerians to live and work in Kisarazu City," and Kisarazu City's complete denial that "this initiative will not lead to immigration or the acceptance of immigrants."
The Nigerian government has also retracted the announcement.
Here, I would like to first address the reasons why Nigerians are considered frightening and barbaric.
Personal Prejudice 1: Nigerians' love of argument
To be honest, when I had the opportunity to interact with Nigerians in Nigeria, I had the impression that "when three people get together, they start arguing."
They are very passionate and have a culture that values expressing one's opinions clearly. I often find myself thinking, "Is this really what people are getting excited about? It's annoying."
However, behind this "culture of debate" lies the "wisdom to harmonize diverse values" cultivated in an environment where people grow up in a multi-ethnic and multilingual country.
In Nigeria, where more than 250 ethnic groups coexist, dialogue with people who have different opinions and values is a daily occurrence, and deepening mutual understanding through discussion is something that people naturally learn.
It's true that they may speak louder and use more aggressive gestures, but this is a genuine desire for communication, a desire to "seriously listen to your opinion" and "please understand my feelings." Sometimes this can be a hassle, though...
Personal Prejudice 2: The World's Strongest? Nigerian "Community Power"
Extended Family System
In Nigeria, the concept of "extended family," which includes not only blood relatives but also friends and neighbors, is deeply rooted. This naturally forms a reliable network where someone is always there to lend a hand when you are in trouble.
Many Nigerians who study or emigrate abroad receive support from the local Nigerian community, who help them find accommodation, find work, and look after their children, just like a real family.
Entrepreneurial spirit called "business genius"
Nigerians are often said to be "business geniuses." This may be because they grew up in a multi-ethnic and multilingual country, which naturally fosters the ability to survive in diversity. There is a culture that is not afraid of "try and error" and values learning from failure.
However, when we negotiate directly with them, they tend to overcharge and it's really tough for us (lol).
Personal Prejudice 3: Colorful Lifestyles
The philosophy behind fashion and the impression Japanese people have of it
There is a deep meaning behind Nigerians' love of vibrant colors. In the harsh natural environment of Africa, colorful clothing is a way of expressing vitality, hope, and joy. They use fashion not just as a way of fashion, but as a way of expressing a strong spirit that will not give in to difficulties.
It's flashy, so I think some Japanese people might find it scary, to be honest.
After all, Japanese people tend to wear monochrome clothing.
Many people may be wondering, "Who is that guy?"
On the other hand, he is also very skilled at choosing the right outfit for the right occasion: a suit for work, traditional clothing for family gatherings, modern African prints for casual occasions... His ability to choose the perfect outfit for each occasion speaks volumes about his high fashion sense.
By the way, Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital, is known as the "New York of Africa" due to its thriving art and fashion scene.
Surprisingly, food culture has a spirit of sharing.
A distinctive feature of Nigerian cuisine is that it is eaten on a large platter and shared. Many dishes, such as jollof rice, fufu, and plantains, are designed to be enjoyed with family and friends, and mealtimes are not just about getting nutrition, but also an important time to deepen communication.
Because of these differences, many people may think that Nigeria is different. However, there are also similarities between Nigeria and Japan, so I will also share those points.
Personal Prejudice 4: Surprising Similarities with Japanese People
Respect for elders and hospitality
In Nigerian culture, respect for elders is very important, which is similar to the Japanese system of "seniority" and "order of seniority."
The warm hospitality shown to guests when they are invited into one's home is in line with Japan's "hospitality culture."
Please give a specific example.
Although I wasn't invited to their home, I was once confronted by a Nigerian security guard at a sports ground in Lagos. When I patiently explained my position and the circumstances, the person in charge apologized, saying, "I'm sorry for causing you such inconvenience, when we should have shown you respect as a foreigner," and "This is a sports club, so you should have been a gentleman."
At first, I had the impression that Nigerians were really barbaric, but this is an example of how I changed my mind and realized that this was not the case.
Now, let me tell you what to do if you actually meet a Nigerian.
If you meet a Nigerian person in Japan
After this recent controversy, some people may be worried about how they should interact with Nigerians when they actually meet them.
But don't worry, it's best to just be yourself.
Basic contact 
Start with a simple greeting - "Hello" or "Good afternoon" is fine. Most people speak English.
Make an effort to remember the person's name correctly - they will be very happy if you make an effort to pronounce it correctly.
Don't panic if an argument breaks out - As mentioned earlier, Nigerians love to argue. If differences of opinion get heated, it doesn't mean hostility.
Accept the difference in the sense of time - There is a term called "African time," and the sense of time may be slightly different from that of Japanese people.
Things to avoid
Avoid asking stereotypical questions such as, "Isn't it hot in Africa?" or "Are there lions?" It is also important to treat people as "Nigerians" rather than as "Africans."
It's completely normal.
But the sad thing is that there are strange and dangerous people in every country.
If by any chance you have the intuition that this Nigerian person is dangerous, run away.
It is not good for crisis management to assume that everyone is a "good person," so please be aware that there are people like that.
Summary: The path to true international exchange
This recent scandal was certainly unfortunate, but perhaps this experience will provide an opportunity to think about true international exchange.
"How much do you accept and how little do you not accept?"
There is an original community there, so if we were to allow a large number of immigrants from Nigeria into the area and have the whole town taken over, I think that would be a problem.
On the other hand, the relationship with the good Nigerians who are already legally residing in the country is a different matter. I think we need to take measures to ensure that they do not suffer the consequences.
(The basic premise is that people who commit crimes are out of the question.)
I also think that this controversy itself should have been communicated to the public sooner, and that the decision should not have been made solely by the top management, but rather the public should have been asked for their opinions on the matter and there should have been sufficient discussion before the announcement.
Fashion can also connect us - heart-to-heart exchange
When we pick up African fashion and accessories, it is not just a purchase. Each item is lovingly crafted in the faraway land of Africa, and the maker's thoughts are infused into it.
When we carry a sisal bag or wear upcycled accessories, we are unconsciously coming into contact with the way of life and values of the African people. I hope that this incident will encourage people to take a look at their culture.
Representative Kaoru Tsuji
