The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Government of Japan have signed two significant agreements aimed at accelerating innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria, with a combined grant value exceeding $30 million.
The signing ceremony took place at the office of the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu. The agreements include the “Project for the Development of the Start-up Hub,” to be implemented by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the “Project for the Development of Supporting Environment for Social Start-ups,” to be executed by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).
Senator Bagudu described the initiatives as key components of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing the growing synergy between Nigeria and Japan.
“I want to express my profound gratitude to the Japanese Government for its consistent support, especially through JICA and the Embassy of Japan, in efforts to improve the quality of life in Nigeria,” Bagudu said.
He added that the projects reflect a shared commitment to national development and highlighted their potential to drive growth in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem, diversify the economy, and enhance social progress.
The Deputy Head of Mission and Counselor at the Japanese Embassy in Nigeria, Kosaki Hitoshi, said the agreements mark a new phase in Nigeria-Japan relations. The start-up hub, to be located in Abuja, is backed by a $9.9 million grant and aims to serve as a central platform for innovation, offering entrepreneurs access to mentorship, networking, and technical support.
The second initiative—a $21 million Social Innovation Fund—will support start-ups tackling social challenges. According to Hitoshi, it is the first of its kind from the Japanese Government and will be co-funded with Nigeria over a 13-year period.
“This is a historic project,” he said. “It represents Japan’s deep commitment to Nigeria’s start-up ecosystem and highlights Nigeria as a strategic partner in innovation. This model is being piloted in Nigeria first, reflecting growing interest in Tokyo.”
The event was attended by officials from the Ministry of Finance, NITDA, NSIA, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Both nations expressed optimism that the partnership would enhance bilateral ties and help build a dynamic, inclusive start-up landscape in Nigeria—particularly one that addresses social and economic challenges through innovation.
Stakeholders anticipate that the projects will empower Nigerian youth, broaden access to funding, and foster sustainable development through entrepreneurship.
