Spain says its bilateral relations with Nigeria have continued to improve in 2026, with opportunities for expanded cooperation in trade, investment, tourism and other areas of mutual interest.
Spain’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Félix Artieda, made the remarks on Monday at Spain’s National Day celebration in Abuja, which brought together diplomats, business leaders and media practitioners.
“2026 has been a good year for Spain, a good year for bilateral relations between Spain and Nigeria,” Artieda said, expressing optimism about the direction of engagement between both countries.
He highlighted Spain’s economic performance, noting that the country’s economy had continued to perform above the European Union average and that employment had reached a record high. He also pointed to tourism as a major part of Spain’s international appeal, with the country expecting to receive 100 million visitors in 2026.
The ambassador said Spain remained committed to promoting peace and effective multilateralism at a time of increasing political divisions and growing demands for accountability in domestic affairs.
He also expressed hope that upcoming elections in Spain and Nigeria would be peaceful. Spain’s parliamentary elections are scheduled for November 29, 2026, while Nigeria’s general election is expected on January 16, 2027, according to his remarks.
Artieda described Nigeria’s electoral process as important not only to the country but also to neighbouring states and the wider African continent, given Nigeria’s population and regional influence.
The celebration also recognised the contributions of the Spanish community in Nigeria. Artieda commended embassy staff for their work in maintaining Spain’s diplomatic presence and supporting engagement between the two countries.
Nigeria and Spain have also identified opportunities to deepen cooperation in specific sectors. In September, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, met Spanish officials to discuss agricultural technology, food production, irrigation, livestock development and reducing food losses. Both sides expressed interest in technology transfer and stronger agricultural value chains.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has likewise identified trade, investment, energy, education, migration management and cultural exchanges as areas with potential for expanded bilateral cooperation.
Spain’s National Day is observed annually on October 12. The occasion provides an opportunity for diplomatic engagement and cultural exchange, while highlighting Spain’s history, heritage and international relationships.
Both countries’ recent engagements point to continued efforts to broaden cooperation beyond diplomatic relations, particularly in economic development, agriculture and people-to-people exchanges.
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