Spain has expressed optimism about strengthening its bilateral relations with Nigeria, particularly in trade, investment, education and tourism.
Spain’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Félix Artieda, stated this on Monday at the country’s National Day celebration in Abuja, attended by diplomats, business leaders and media practitioners.
Artieda described 2026 as a positive year for relations between both countries, noting that Spain’s economy had continued to perform above the European Union average, while employment had reached a record high.
On tourism, he said Spain remained an attractive international destination and projected that the country would receive 100 million visitors in 2026.
The ambassador attributed its appeal partly to its cultural heritage and contributions to fashion, cinema and sports.
He also reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to peace and multilateral cooperation amid increasing global political divisions.
Artieda expressed hope that upcoming elections in Spain and Nigeria would be peaceful, describing Nigeria’s electoral process as significant to its neighbours and the wider African continent.
He commended members of the Spanish community in Nigeria and embassy personnel for their contributions to strengthening diplomatic relations.
Spain celebrates its National Day annually on October 12, commemorating Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492.
The celebration in Abuja provided an opportunity to promote cultural exchange and strengthen cooperation between both countries.
