The Ambassador of Nigeria to Spain, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, has called for stronger economic cooperation between Nigeria and Spain, particularly in renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, technology and the creative industries.
Ikpeazu said deeper bilateral relations would create opportunities for investment, trade and business partnerships, contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and development.
The Ambassador made the call in Madrid, Spain, while addressing Nigerians and other dignitaries at an event marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
He said Nigeria and Spain had continued to strengthen their relationship through mutual respect, constructive dialogue and expanding cooperation in trade, investment, education, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
According to him, Spanish companies, including GB Foods, have continued to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s dynamic market, while Nigerians living in Spain are making significant contributions to the country’s social and economic development.
Ikpeazu said Nigeria valued Spain’s partnership and was committed to deepening collaboration in areas of shared interest, adding that the Federal Government would continue to create opportunities for investment and business-to-business matchmaking.
Congratulating President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians, particularly those residing in Spain, on the anniversary, the Ambassador paid tribute to the country’s founding fathers and nationalists whose sacrifices secured Nigeria’s independence in 1960.
He said the anniversary provided an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the ideals of freedom, unity, progress and dignity, which continue to shape the country’s national aspirations.
According to him, Nigeria remains Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies, with abundant human talent, cultural diversity and natural resources.
He also highlighted the country’s democratic institutions, youthful population and contributions to regional peace, security and development across Africa and beyond.
The Ambassador, however, acknowledged the country’s economic challenges, expressing optimism that ongoing reforms under the Tinubu administration would support economic diversification, improved governance and inclusive growth.
‘We are not satisfied with the present economic realities, but we are making progress as a people,’ he said.
Ikpeazu said the Federal Government remained committed to harnessing the potential of Nigerian youths, the creativity of its people and the country’s diversity to build a more prosperous and secure future.
He stressed that the support and partnership of countries such as Spain would remain important to achieving these objectives.
Addressing Nigerians living in Spain, including students, professionals and entrepreneurs, the Ambassador described them as valuable representatives of the country, whose conduct, achievements and contributions could strengthen relations between both nations.
He urged them to remain united, law-abiding and committed to upholding Nigeria’s image through hard work, integrity, innovation and resilience.
Ikpeazu said the contributions of Nigerians in Spain continued to reinforce the bonds of friendship between the two countries, urging them to sustain their positive engagement with their host community.
He called on Nigerians to use the Independence Anniversary to renew their commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and respected nation.
The Ambassador expressed confidence that sustained cooperation with Spain and other international partners would help Nigeria expand investment opportunities, strengthen economic ties and advance its development objectives.
He urged Nigerians to remain united in pursuing the country’s aspirations, while reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining friendly relations with Spain.