Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, says bilateral relations between Nigeria and Spain are growing, with increasing opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, education, culture and technology.
Ikpeazu stated this in Madrid while delivering his speech to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The ambassador said the anniversary provided an opportunity to celebrate Nigeria’s independence while reaffirming the country’s commitment to freedom, unity, progress and dignity.
He congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians, particularly those resident in Spain, on the national celebration, while paying tribute to Nigeria’s nationalists and patriots whose sacrifices secured the country’s independence in 1960.
According to him, nation-building remains a continuous process requiring resilience, innovation and collective responsibility.
Ikpeazu described Nigeria as Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest economies, with significant human talent, cultural diversity and natural resources.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s democratic institutions, youthful population and contributions to regional peace, security and development.
On Nigeria-Spain relations, the ambassador said the two countries had continued to build their partnership on mutual respect, dialogue and expanding cooperation.
He noted that Spanish companies, including GB Foods, continued to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s market, while Nigerians in Spain were contributing to the country’s social and economic development.
Ikpeazu expressed Nigeria’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Spain in renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, technology and the creative industries.
He particularly commended the Nigerian community in Spain, describing students, professionals and entrepreneurs as valuable ambassadors of the country.
He urged them to remain united and law-abiding while projecting the Nigerian spirit of enterprise, innovation and resilience.
The ambassador further said the Federal Government was pursuing reforms aimed at economic diversification, improved governance and inclusive growth.
“Government is determined to harness the energy of our youth, the creativity of our people, and the strength of our diversity to build a more prosperous and secure future,” he said.
Ikpeazu acknowledged the challenges facing the Nigerian economy but said the country was making progress and remained committed to creating opportunities for investment and business-to-business partnerships.
He called for stronger support from Spain, stressing that such partnerships would contribute to Nigeria’s development.
The ambassador urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous nation as the country marked 66 years of independence.
He concluded by raising a toast to Nigeria and Spain and wishing both countries continued progress and prosperity.
