Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic and diplomatic relations with Spain, with the Nigerian Ambassador to Spain, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, calling for increased Spanish investment in renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, technology and the creative industries.
Ikpeazu made the call in Madrid during Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary celebration, where he said the longstanding relationship between both countries provided significant opportunities for expanded economic cooperation and business-to-business partnerships.
The ambassador said Nigeria-Spain relations had continued to develop on the foundations of mutual respect, constructive dialogue and cooperation in trade, investment, education, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
He cited the presence of Spanish companies, including GB Foods, in Nigeria as evidence of the opportunities available in the country’s market, urging more Spanish businesses to explore Nigeria’s investment potential.
According to him, the Nigerian Embassy in Spain would continue to facilitate investment opportunities and business-to-business matchmaking as part of efforts to attract capital and deepen economic ties between the two countries.
“I want to categorically affirm that we will continue to create opportunities for investment and business-to-business matchmaking to develop our country,” Ikpeazu said.
He identified renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, technology and the creative sector as key areas where Nigeria and Spain could expand economic cooperation, noting that stronger Spanish participation would support Nigeria’s development objectives.
The ambassador also highlighted the contribution of Nigerians living in Spain to the country’s social and economic development, describing the diaspora community as an important link between the two nations.
He urged Nigerian students, professionals and entrepreneurs in Spain to remain law-abiding and united while projecting the values of enterprise, innovation and resilience.
“You remain our most valuable ambassadors. Your hard work, integrity, and achievements enhance the image of our nation and strengthen the bridges between our two countries,” he told members of the Nigerian community.
Ikpeazu said the 66th Independence Anniversary provided an opportunity for Nigerians to celebrate the country’s achievements while reflecting on the sacrifices of the nationalists and patriots who secured independence in 1960.
He noted that Nigeria had since emerged as Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest economies, with substantial human and natural resources and a youthful population capable of contributing significantly to national development.
The ambassador also highlighted Nigeria’s role in promoting peace, security and development across Africa, saying the country remained committed to playing a constructive role on the continent and beyond.
On Nigeria’s economic situation, Ikpeazu acknowledged the difficulties confronting citizens but said ongoing government reforms were aimed at diversifying the economy, improving governance and promoting inclusive growth.
“We are not satisfied with the present economic realities, but we are making progress as a people,” he said.
He said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was focused on harnessing Nigeria’s youthful population, creativity and diversity to build a more prosperous and secure future.
The ambassador’s appeal for greater Spanish investment comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to attract foreign capital, diversify its economy and strengthen economic partnerships beyond its traditional dependence on oil revenues.
He said the Independence Anniversary should also inspire Nigerians to renew their commitment to unity, peace, prosperity and national development.
The Madrid celebration brought together Nigerian officials, members of the Nigerian community and Spanish stakeholders to commemorate Nigeria’s independence on October 1, 1960.
Ikpeazu congratulated President Tinubu and Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary, paid tribute to the country’s founding nationalists and urged citizens to embrace their collective responsibility for building a stronger nation.
He called for sustained commitment to building a Nigeria that is “peaceful, prosperous, and respected in the comity of nations.”
