Nigerian actor Deyemi Okanlawon took to his X account with a video of himself speaking Japanese as he wished the Emperor of Japan on his birthday.
While working on a television series with Japan’s national broadcaster NHK in Tokyo, the Queen of Mars star revealed that he received a call from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs inviting him to record a birthday message for His Majesty, the Emperor of Japan.
In the video he shared on X, Deyemi appears in elegant black agbada, fila, and blistering beads, holding a Japanese katana, as he delivers a graceful and heartfelt message. 
The Birthday Message
Addressing the Emperor directly, he introduced himself:
“I am Deyemi Okanlawon, a Nigerian actor currently working on a TV series with NHK here in Tokyo. It is an incredible honour for me to extend my heartfelt wishes on your birthday.”
He went on to praise Japan for its breathtaking scenery, the warmth of its people, its rich culture, and its delicious cuisine. Positioning himself as someone who hopes to serve as a bridge between Nigeria and Japan, he concluded:
“On behalf of all Nigerians at home and in Japan, I wish you a Happy Birthday, Your Majesty!”
Deyemi Okanlawon Says its Not Al
Aware that some people might question the authenticity of the polished delivery, Deyemi added a note for skeptics:
“For those with no idea of my skills & think this could be Al, please Google to see where I repeated it live on TV.”
The Emperor of Japan’s birthday is an annual public holiday in Japan on February 23. Although, Deyemi did not specify the date the video was recorded in his recent post on October 28, 2026, his project on the series Queen of Mars was in 2025. He had also posted a similar video which drew widespread praise.
Deyemi’s continued presence in Japan and this latest official invitation highlight his expanding international career. From Nollywood screens to working with NHK and receiving a formal request from the Japanese government, the actor continues to represent Nigeria with class and professionalism.
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Story written by Oluwagbohunmi Bajela, edited by Sola Sanusi.
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