By Gloria Ikibah
Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, has called for renewed unity, resilience and collective responsibility as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Ikpeazu made the call in Madrid while addressing Nigerians and guests at an event organised to commemorate Nigeria’s Independence Day, saying nation-building remained a continuous process requiring the contribution of every citizen. 
He congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians, particularly members of the Nigerian community in Spain, on the anniversary.
“It is my profound honour and privilege to welcome you all to this event marking the 66th anniversary of the independence of our beloved country, Nigeria. As you are aware, on this day in 1960, our great nation proudly raised its green-white-green flag and took its rightful place among the free and sovereign nations of the world,” he said.
According to him, the anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s journey since independence and reaffirm the country’s commitment to freedom, unity, progress and dignity.
“I congratulate His Excellency, the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR and all Nigerians, especially those residing in the Kingdom of Spain, as we celebrate our national day. Permit me to pay tribute to those who envisioned our country, our nationalists and patriots whose courage and sacrifice secured our freedom.
“Their legacy reminds us that nation-building is a continuous endeavour, which demands resilience, innovation, and collective responsibility,” Ikpeazu said.
The envoy described Nigeria as Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest economies, noting its human capital, cultural diversity and natural resources.
“Nigeria today stands as Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies, a country rich in human talent, cultural diversity, and natural resources,” he added.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s democratic institutions, youthful population and contribution to peace, security and development in Africa and beyond.
Ikpeazu used the occasion to highlight the growing relationship between Nigeria and Spain, describing the bilateral ties as being anchored on mutual respect, constructive dialogue and expanding cooperation.
“This anniversary also provides an opportunity to reflect on the strong and growing bonds of friendship between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Spain. Our bilateral relations are characterised by mutual respect, constructive dialogue, and expanding cooperation in trade, investment, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges,” he said.
He noted that Spanish companies, including GB Foods, continued to explore opportunities in Nigeria, while Nigerians living in Spain were making contributions to the country’s social and economic life.
“Spanish companies like GB Foods and others continue to find opportunities in Nigeria’s dynamic market, while Nigerians in Spain contribute meaningfully to the social and economic fabric of this great country,” he said.
Ambassador Ikpeazu said Nigeria valued Spain’s partnership and was interested in expanding cooperation in renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, technology and the creative industries.
He added that the Nigerian diplomatic mission would continue working to create opportunities for investment and business-to-business partnerships.
“I want to categorically affirm that we will continue to create opportunities for investment and business-to-business matchmaking to develop our country,” he stated.
He also commended Nigerians living in Spain, describing students, professionals and entrepreneurs as important links between both countries.
“To the Nigerian community here in Spain – our students, professionals and entrepreneurs — I extend special greetings. You remain our most valuable ambassadors. Your hard work, integrity, and achievements enhance the image of our nation and strengthen the bridges between our two countries,” he asserted.
He therefore urged members of the community to remain united and law-abiding while upholding the values of enterprise, innovation and resilience associated with Nigerians.
Ikpeazu said Nigeria was pursuing reforms aimed at diversifying its economy, improving governance and promoting inclusive growth under the Tinubu administration.
“Looking ahead, Nigeria under the leadership of Mr President continues to pursue 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. 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.
He acknowledged the importance of international partnerships in achieving those objectives, particularly the continued friendship and support of Spain.
“In this endeavour, the support and friendship of partners such as Spain remain invaluable.
“Fellow Nigerians, as we raise a toast to Nigeria at 66, let us renew our pledge to work together for a nation that is peaceful, prosperous, and respected in the comity of nations,” he said.
As Nigerians celebrated 66 years of independence, Ikpeazu urged citizens to renew their commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous country.
