Ikpeazu Urges Abians in Spain to Uphold Nigeria’s Image

Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, has urged Abia indigenes living in Valencia to uphold the values of hard work, integrity and resilience as representatives of Nigeria and their home state.

Ikpeazu gave the charge on Sunday, November 1, 2026, when he attended the 16th anniversary celebration of Ndi Abia in Diaspora, Valencia Chapter, as Special Guest of Honour.

According to a statement issued by the Embassy of Nigeria in Madrid, the ambassador addressed Abia indigenes and other members of the Nigerian community at the event.

The former Abia State governor said the conduct and contributions of Nigerians abroad influence how their host communities perceive the country.

He urged the residents to maintain good relationships with Spanish society while promoting unity, mutual support and commitment to their cultural roots.

Ikpeazu described Abians as enterprising people with a strong reputation in craftsmanship, particularly tailoring and shoemaking. He encouraged them to take pride in their Igbo heritage and cultural identity.

He also highlighted the importance of Nigerians in the diaspora to national development, describing them as cultural ambassadors and potential drivers of investment.

The ambassador urged the Valencia chapter to sustain its efforts towards building unity among members and creating opportunities that could benefit both their host community and Abia State.

Ikpeazu, who assumed office as Nigeria’s ambassador to Spain in September 2026 after presenting his Letters of Credence to King Felipe VI, congratulated the association on its 16th anniversary.

He commended its leadership and members for keeping the organisation together over the years and pledged the Embassy’s continued support for Nigerians living in Spain.

He also assured the community that the Embassy would work with its members to address issues affecting their welfare and strengthen relations between Nigeria and Spain.

Earlier, the Chairman of Ndi Abia in Diaspora, Valencia Chapter, Mr Endy Okoroafor, expressed appreciation to members and founding leaders for sustaining the association since its establishment.

Okoroafor described the anniversary as an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, unity and achievements of Abians in the Spanish city.

He paid tribute to the founding members, former leaders and elders who established the association 16 years ago to provide mutual support and build a lasting legacy for younger generations.

The chairman also announced that the association had secured formal registration after encountering difficulties under previous administrations.

He said the group, formerly known as Abia State Congress in Diaspora, had now completed the registration process as Ndi Abia in Diaspora.

Okoroafor called for stronger participation and unity among members, regardless of their local government areas of origin in Abia State.

He said the association remained committed to the Igbo principle of “Onye Aghala Nwanne Ya”, meaning let no one abandon his brother.

The anniversary celebration featured cultural performances, reflections on the association’s history, the unveiling of Almalac, presentation of awards and networking among Abia indigenes in Valencia.

The gathering also highlighted the role of organised diaspora associations in preserving cultural identity, promoting community development and strengthening relations between Nigeria and their host countries.