Tinubu: Takaichi’s election as Japan’s first female PM reflects people’s trust

President Bola Tinubu has felicitated Sanae Takaichi’s election as the first female prime minister of Japan.

Sweeping 237 votes in the lower house and another 125 in the upper house, the 64-year-old secured a last-minute deal with an opposition party to become leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

In a congratulatory letter on Friday, Tinubu said he looks forward to working with Takaichi.

“Your victory as the leader of the Liberal Democratic Party and ultimately as the Prime Minister of Japan constitutes a remarkable expression of the confidence reposed in you by the good people of Japan,” Tinubu said.

“Your election as the first female Prime Minister of Japan is also a testament to the decades of your tremendous contributions to the growth of your political party and governance in Japan.

“As you assume this mandate, you can please rest assured of Nigeria’s continued goodwill and support for Japan. Nigeria and Japan have maintained a deep, productive, and strategic relationship over the years, covering several areas of bilateral cooperation.

“I am confident that we would work together to build on the foundation that has been laid, as well as strengthen and deepen the relationship between our two countries. I therefore look forward to meeting with you at your earliest convenience to explore these opportunities.”

Tinubu expressed optimism that Nigeria-Japan relations would continue to blossom under Taikachi’s capable and visionary leadership.

STRAINED DIPLOMATIC TIES

Takaichi takes office at a turbulent moment for Japan. At home, she faces rising living costs and growing unease over immigration — an issue that recently spilled into Japan–Nigeria relations.

Last month, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) scrapped its ‘Africa Hometown’ initiative after a statement from Nigeria’s State House claimed Japan planned to create a “special visa category” for young Nigerians to live and work in Kisarazu.

Japan swiftly denied it, saying the term “hometown” had caused “misunderstandings and confusion” that triggered public backlash.

Online, Japanese citizens voiced fears over security and resources, highlighting how immigration remains politically sensitive.

Beyond domestic pressures, Takaichi’s right-wing views could also test Tokyo’s fragile reconciliation with South Korea.

Takaichi is Japan’s fourth prime minister in just five years. She is a staunch conservative and admirer of the late former UK PM Margaret Thatcher.