By | Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja
The Ambassador of Nigeria to the Kingdom of Spain, His Excellency Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its bilateral relations with Spain, particularly in trade, investment, education, renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, technology and the creative industries.
Ikpeazu made the commitment in Madrid while addressing Nigerians and other guests at an event to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The ambassador congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Nigerians, particularly those resident in Spain, on the national anniversary, describing the occasion as an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s journey since independence and renew the country’s commitment to freedom, unity, progress and dignity.
He paid tribute to Nigeria’s nationalists and patriots whose courage and sacrifices secured the country’s independence, noting that nation-building remained a continuous process requiring resilience, innovation and collective responsibility.
According to him, Nigeria remains Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies, with enormous human talent, cultural diversity and natural resources.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s democratic institutions, vibrant youth population and contributions to peace, security and development across Africa and beyond.
On Nigeria-Spain relations, Ikpeazu said the two countries had maintained strong and growing ties based on mutual respect, constructive dialogue and expanding cooperation.
He noted that Spanish companies, including GB Foods, continued to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s dynamic market, while Nigerians living in Spain were contributing to the social and economic development of the country.
“We deeply value Spain’s partnership and look forward to deepening collaboration in areas of shared interest, including renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, technology, and the creative industries,” he said.
The ambassador described the Nigerian community in Spain as important bridges between both countries, urging students, professionals and entrepreneurs to remain united, law-abiding and committed to upholding the positive image of Nigeria.
“Your hard work, integrity, and achievements enhance the image of our nation and strengthen the bridges between our two countries,” Ikpeazu said.
On Nigeria’s economic outlook, the ambassador said the administration of President Tinubu was pursuing reforms aimed at economic diversification, improved governance and inclusive growth.
He acknowledged the economic challenges confronting Nigerians but said the country was making progress and remained determined to build a more prosperous and secure future.
Ikpeazu said the government would continue to harness the energy of Nigerian youths, the creativity of its people and the strength of its diversity in driving national development.
He further pledged the embassy’s commitment to facilitating investment opportunities and business-to-business matchmaking between Nigeria and Spain.
“I want to categorically affirm that we will continue to create opportunities for investment and business-to-business matchmaking to develop our country,” he said.
As Nigeria marked 66 years of independence, the ambassador called on Nigerians to renew their commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and respected nation.
“As we raise a toast to Nigeria at 66, let us renew our pledge to work together for a nation that is peaceful, prosperous, and respected in the comity of nations,” he said.
He concluded by wishing both Nigeria and Spain continued progress, saying: “Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria! Long live the Kingdom of Spain!
