Nigeria at 66: Ikpeazu Seeks Stronger Nigeria-Spain Economic Partnership
Oru Leonard
The Ambassador of Nigeria to the Kingdom of Spain, His Excellency 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 made the call in Madrid while delivering his address to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The Ambassador congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians, particularly members of the Nigerian community in Spain, on the occasion, while paying tribute to the nationalists and patriots whose sacrifices secured Nigeria’s independence in 1960.
According to him, the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey while reaffirming their commitment to freedom, unity, progress and national dignity.
He described Nigeria as Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest economies, noting that the country remains endowed with human talent, cultural diversity and natural resources.
Ikpeazu also highlighted Nigeria’s contributions to regional peace, security and development, as well as the vibrancy of its youthful population and democratic institutions.
Speaking on Nigeria-Spain relations, the Ambassador said bilateral ties had continued to grow through mutual respect, constructive dialogue and cooperation in areas including trade, investment, education, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
He noted that Spanish companies, including GB Foods, continue to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s market, while Nigerians living in Spain contribute significantly to the country’s social and economic development.
“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 further pledged that the Nigerian Mission in Spain would continue to facilitate investment opportunities and business-to-business matchmaking as part of efforts to attract more partnerships and support Nigeria’s economic development.
Ikpeazu commended Nigerians living in Spain, including students, professionals and entrepreneurs, describing them as important ambassadors of the country.
He urged them to remain united, law-abiding and committed to projecting the values of enterprise, innovation and resilience associated with Nigeria.
On the domestic front, the Ambassador said the Federal Government under President Tinubu was pursuing reforms focused on economic diversification, improved governance and inclusive growth.
He acknowledged the difficulties arising from current economic realities but said the country was making progress and remained determined to harness the energy of its youth and the creativity and diversity of its people.
He called for collective commitment towards building a peaceful, prosperous and respected Nigeria.
“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,” Ikpeazu said.
He concluded by wishing Nigeria and Spain continued peace and prosperity.
