Ikpeazu Urges Abians In Spain To Uphold Nigeria’s Image
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
From building businesses and raising families to preserving their cultural identity thousands of miles from home, Abians in Valencia, Spain, have been urged to let hard work, integrity and unity define their contribution to their host country.
Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, gave the charge while addressing members of Ndi Abia in Diaspora, Valencia Chapter, during the association’s 16th anniversary celebration on Sunday, 1 November 2026.
Ikpeazu, a former Governor of Abia State, urged the indigenes to remain worthy ambassadors of Nigeria and Abia, stressing that their conduct, professional achievements and relationships with the Spanish community shape how their country is perceived abroad.
He encouraged them to uphold hard work, resilience, mutual support and positive engagement with their host society while maintaining strong connections with their cultural roots.
Describing Abians as enterprising people with a rich history, the Ambassador particularly highlighted their global reputation in tailoring and shoemaking, urging them to take pride in their Igbo identity and heritage.
He also described Nigerians in the diaspora as valuable national assets who serve as cultural bridges, promote investment and contribute to Nigeria’s development through their networks and activities abroad.
Ikpeazu commended the Valencia chapter for sustaining the association over 16 years and encouraged members to strengthen their unity and explore opportunities that would benefit both Spain and their home state.
He assured the community of the Embassy’s support in addressing issues affecting Nigerians in Spain and strengthening people-to-people relations between both countries.
Earlier, Chairman of Ndi Abia in Diaspora, Valencia, Mr Endy Okoroafor, described the anniversary as a celebration of resilience, shared identity and collective progress.
He paid tribute to the association’s founding members, former leaders and elders who established the organisation 16 years ago to provide support and solidarity among Abians living in Spain.
Okoroafor also announced that the association, formerly known as Abia State Congress in Diaspora, had successfully secured formal registration after encountering difficulties under previous administrations.
He said the achievement reflected the determination of members to build a sustainable organisation, reaffirming their commitment to the Igbo principle of Onye Aghala Nwanne Ya – let no one leave their brother behind.
The chairman stressed that Abians remained one people, irrespective of their local government areas of origin, and called for greater participation and solidarity among members.
The anniversary featured cultural performances, reflections on the association’s journey, the unveiling of Almalac, award presentations and networking among Abia indigenes in Valencia.
Ambassador Ikpeazu assumed office as Nigeria’s envoy to Spain in September 2026 after presenting his Letters of Credence to King Felipe VI.
The celebration highlighted the growing importance of organised diaspora associations in preserving Nigerian cultural identity, strengthening community ties and contributing to diplomatic relations.
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