By Ndudirim Sylvia Iloka
Nigeria is seeking to strengthen its economic and diplomatic partnership with Spain, with renewed focus on investment, renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, technology and the creative sector.
Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, made the call in Madrid during activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, where he highlighted the longstanding relationship between both countries and the need to expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Ikpeazu congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians at home and abroad, while paying tribute to the nationalists and patriots whose efforts culminated in Nigeria’s independence in 1960.
He said the anniversary provided an opportunity not only to celebrate Nigeria’s independence but also to reflect on the responsibilities involved in building a united, peaceful and prosperous nation.
The ambassador described Nigeria as Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest economies, pointing to its large youthful population, cultural diversity, natural resources and human capital as important assets for national development.
On Nigeria-Spain relations, Ikpeazu said bilateral ties had continued to develop through cooperation in trade, investment, education, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
He noted that Spanish businesses, including GB Foods, were taking advantage of opportunities in the Nigerian market, while Nigerians living in Spain were contributing to the country’s social and economic life.
According to him, Nigeria is particularly interested in attracting greater Spanish participation in strategic sectors and creating platforms that would connect investors and businesses from both countries.
The ambassador also acknowledged the contributions of Nigerians living in Spain, describing students, professionals and entrepreneurs as important links between the two countries.
He urged members of the Nigerian community to uphold the values of hard work, integrity, enterprise and innovation, saying their conduct and achievements could help strengthen Nigeria’s image abroad.
On domestic development, Ikpeazu said the Tinubu administration was pursuing reforms focused on economic diversification, governance and broader economic growth.
While acknowledging the difficulties facing Nigerians, he said the government remained committed to harnessing the country’s youthful population, creativity and diversity to build a stronger economy and a more secure future.
He stressed that partnerships with countries such as Spain would remain important to achieving those objectives.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us renew our commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and respected Nigeria,” the ambassador said.
The Madrid event formed part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, with members of the Nigerian community and friends of the country in Spain in attendance.
