Ikpeazu Urges Abians in Spain to Uphold Nigeria’s Image, Promote Unity

Ikpeazu Urges Abians in Spain to Uphold Nigeria’s Image, Promote Unity

By Our Reporter

Valencia (Core Reporters) Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, has urged Abia State indigenes residing in Valencia to be worthy ambassadors of Nigeria and their home state by upholding the values of hard work, integrity, unity and mutual support.

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

According to a statement issued by the Embassy of Nigeria in Madrid, the Ambassador, who is also a former Governor of Abia State, reminded the gathering that their conduct, professional accomplishments and interactions with their host community directly influence how Nigeria and Abia State are perceived abroad.

He urged them to maintain positive relationships with Spanish society, support one another and remain connected to their cultural roots.

Describing Abians as highly enterprising people, Ikpeazu particularly highlighted their global reputation in tailoring and shoemaking, urging them to take pride in their heritage and Igbo identity.

He noted that Nigerians in the diaspora constitute a valuable national asset through their contributions to cultural diplomacy, investment promotion and the strengthening of international relations.

The Ambassador encouraged the Valencia chapter to sustain its commitment to unity and collective development while exploring opportunities that would benefit both their host community and Abia State.

Ikpeazu, who assumed office as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain in September 2026 following the presentation of his Letters of Credence to King Felipe VI, commended the association’s leadership and members for sustaining the organisation for 16 years.

He congratulated them on the anniversary and assured them of the Embassy’s continued commitment to the welfare of Nigerians in Spain.

He further pledged that the Embassy under his leadership would maintain a harmonious working relationship with Nigerian community associations and address issues affecting their members.

Earlier, Chairman of Ndi Abia in Diaspora, Valencia Chapter, Mr Endy Okoroafor, expressed gratitude to members, founding fathers and past leaders for their resilience and commitment to sustaining the association.

Describing the anniversary as a special milestone, Okoroafor welcomed Abians resident in Valencia and expressed appreciation for the Ambassador’s presence, noting that the association’s growth over the years reflected the strength, unity and determination of its members.

He paid tribute to the founding members and elders who established the organisation 16 years ago with the vision of creating a platform for mutual support, shared progress and the preservation of Abia identity for future generations.

Providing an update on the association’s administrative development, Okoroafor disclosed that Ndi Abia in Diaspora, formerly known as Abia State Congress in Diaspora, had overcome previous registration challenges and was now fully registered.

He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to the Igbo philosophy of Onye Aghala Nwanne Ya, meaning “let no one leave their brother behind”.

According to him, Abians remain one people, irrespective of their respective local government areas, united by a common heritage and shared identity.

The anniversary celebration featured cultural performances, reflections on the association’s 16-year journey, the unveiling of Almalac, presentation of awards and networking among Abia indigenes resident in the Valencia region.

The event highlighted the growing role of organised diaspora associations in preserving cultural heritage, strengthening community bonds and promoting Nigeria’s international relations.