Nigeria’s New Ambassador To Spain Pledges Stronger Trade, Investment Ties

Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Spain, Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, has presented his Letters of Credence to King Felipe VI of Spain, formally commencing his diplomatic assignment in the country.

Ikpeazu, who presented the credentials at the Royal Palace in Madrid on Monday, conveyed the greetings and best wishes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Spanish monarch, government and people.

The ambassador reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Spain, particularly in trade and investment, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, education, culture, tourism, security and people-to-people exchanges.

He also expressed Nigeria’s readiness to work with the Spanish government, institutions and private sector to expand economic partnerships, increase trade and investment flows, and strengthen commercial and institutional cooperation.

Speaking at a reception hosted by the Nigerian Embassy in Madrid after the ceremony, Ikpeazu called for the revitalisation of existing bilateral agreements between Nigeria and Spain to reflect contemporary economic and diplomatic priorities.

He specifically highlighted the need to review the Bilateral Air Service Agreement between both countries, stressing that improved direct air connectivity would boost trade, tourism, investment and people-to-people exchanges.

The ambassador also called for broader engagement involving public institutions, businesses, academia, cultural organisations, civil society and communities, saying Nigeria-Spain relations offered significant opportunities for expanded cooperation.

Ikpeazu acknowledged the contributions of Nigerians living in Spain, describing them as an important bridge between the two countries. He pledged that the Nigerian Embassy would continue to protect their interests and strengthen their engagement with the mission.

The reception was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, Spanish government representatives, business and cultural stakeholders, members of the Nigerian community and friends of Nigeria.

Ikpeazu said he remained committed to advancing Nigeria’s interests while consolidating the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and Spain.