Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, Okezie Ikpeazu, has called for the revitalisation of existing bilateral agreements between Nigeria and Spain to strengthen trade, investment and people-to-people relations.
Ikpeazu made the call after presenting his Letters of Credence to Spain’s King Felipe VI at the Royal Palace in Madrid on Monday, formally marking the start of his diplomatic assignment.
According to a statement issued by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, on Tuesday, the ambassador conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s greetings and goodwill to the Spanish monarch, government and people.
Ikpeazu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Spain in areas including trade and investment, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, education, culture, tourism and security.
He said Nigeria was ready to work with the Spanish government, institutions and private sector to create new economic opportunities and increase bilateral trade and investment.
Speaking at a reception hosted by the Nigerian Embassy in Madrid, Ikpeazu said existing agreements should be reviewed to reflect current economic and diplomatic priorities.
He specifically highlighted the Bilateral Air Service Agreement, calling for improved direct air connectivity between Nigeria and Spain. He said stronger air links would support tourism, economic partnerships and people-to-people exchanges.
The ambassador also advocated broader participation in bilateral relations, involving government institutions, businesses, academia, cultural organisations, civil society and local communities.
Ikpeazu described Nigerians living in Spain as an important bridge between the two countries and pledged that the Nigerian Embassy would continue to promote and protect their interests.
He said the embassy would work with Spanish authorities, the private sector, development partners and the Nigerian community to translate existing goodwill into tangible outcomes. Nigeria and Spain have maintained longstanding diplomatic relations covering economic, cultural and people-to-people cooperation.
