Nigeria Seeks Stronger Economic Ties with Spain at 66
Nigeria is seeking deeper economic cooperation with Spain in renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, technology and the creative industries as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, made the call in Madrid during an event to commemorate Nigeria’s independence, stressing the importance of expanding investment and business-to-business opportunities between both countries.
“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.
Dr Ikpeazu described relations between Nigeria and Spain as being characterised by mutual respect, constructive dialogue and growing cooperation in trade, investment, education, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
He noted that Spanish companies, including GB Foods, continued to explore opportunities in Nigeria, while Nigerians living in Spain were also contributing to the social and economic development of their host country.
The ambassador said Nigeria would continue to create opportunities for investment and business-to-business matchmaking as part of efforts to support economic development.
“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.
Dr Ikpeazu also highlighted government efforts to diversify the Nigerian economy, improve governance and promote inclusive growth, noting that the country was seeking to harness the potential of its young population, creativity and diversity.
“We are not satisfied with the present economic realities, but we are making progress as a people,” he said.
According to him, the support and friendship of countries such as Spain remained important to Nigeria’s development efforts.
Turning to the Nigerian community in Spain, Dr Ikpeazu urged citizens to remain united, law-abiding and committed to promoting the country’s image.
He described Nigerian students, professionals and entrepreneurs in Spain as important links between the two countries.
“Your hard work, integrity, and achievements enhance the image of our nation and strengthen the bridges between our two countries,” he said.
The ambassador encouraged members of the Nigerian community to continue demonstrating the country’s spirit of enterprise, innovation and resilience.
He also paid tribute to Nigeria’s nationalists and patriots whose efforts contributed to the country’s independence in 1960, saying the anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s journey and renew commitment to freedom, unity, progress and dignity.
Dr Ikpeazu described Nigeria as Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest economies, highlighting its human capital, cultural diversity and natural resources.
He also noted Nigeria’s contributions to regional peace, security and development.
The ambassador congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians, particularly those resident in Spain, on the 66th Independence Anniversary.
He 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.
