General News
Nigeria Seeks Stronger Spanish Investment As Ikpeazu Marks 66th Independence
By Iyojo Ameh
Nigeria has renewed its call for stronger investment and business partnerships with Spain, with Ambassador to the country, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, identifying renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, technology and the creative industries as priority areas for expanded cooperation.
Ikpeazu made the call in Madrid while addressing guests at an event commemorating Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The ambassador said Nigeria was committed to strengthening its longstanding relationship with Spain through increased trade, investment, education, cultural exchanges and people-to-people relations.
He said the two countries had continued to build their bilateral relationship on mutual respect and constructive dialogue, adding that there remained significant opportunities for deeper economic engagement.
Ikpeazu pointed to the presence and activities of Spanish companies, including GB Foods, in Nigeria as evidence of the opportunities available to businesses from both countries.
He stressed the need to build on such engagements through deliberate efforts to connect investors and businesses.
“We will continue to create opportunities for investment and business-to-business matchmaking to develop our country,” the ambassador said.
He also acknowledged the contribution of Nigerians living in Spain, particularly students, professionals and entrepreneurs, to the Spanish economy and society.
Ikpeazu described members of the Nigerian community as important ambassadors of the country and urged them to remain united, law-abiding and committed to upholding the values of enterprise, innovation and resilience.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 66 years of independence, the ambassador paid tribute to the country’s founding nationalists and patriots, saying their sacrifices continued to provide inspiration for nation-building.
He described independence as an important milestone in Nigeria’s journey and said the anniversary should also serve as an opportunity for citizens to renew their commitment to national unity, progress and dignity.
According to him, Nigeria remains Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies, with considerable human talent, cultural diversity and natural resources.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s youthful population, democratic institutions and contributions to peace, security and development across Africa.
On the domestic economy, Ikpeazu said the Federal Government was pursuing reforms aimed at economic diversification, improved governance and inclusive growth.
“We are not satisfied with the present economic realities, but we are making progress as a people,” he said.
He acknowledged the difficulties confronting Nigerians but maintained that the country’s human and economic potential provided a foundation for building a more prosperous future.
The ambassador said Nigeria was determined to harness the creativity of its people and the energy of its youth while leveraging its diversity for national development.
He further stressed the importance of Spain’s continued partnership in supporting Nigeria’s development ambitions.
Ikpeazu congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians at home and abroad on the independence anniversary, calling for collective efforts towards building a peaceful, prosperous and respected Nigeria.
He concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to stronger relations with Spain and raised a toast to the continued friendship between the two countries.