Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has urged Abia indigenes residing in Valencia to uphold the virtues of hard work, unity and resilience, describing them as important ambassadors of Nigeria and their home state.
According to a statement issued by the Embassy of Nigeria in Madrid on Monday, 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.
The Ambassador reminded members of the association that their conduct, integrity and contributions to Spanish society would influence how Nigeria and Abia State are perceived in their host country.
He urged them to remain committed to hard work, mutual support and positive engagement with their host community while maintaining strong ties with their cultural heritage.
The former Abia State governor described Abians as highly enterprising people, particularly renowned for their skills in tailoring and shoemaking, urging them to take pride in their Igbo identity and rich cultural heritage.
He noted that Nigerians in the diaspora remained valuable national assets, serving as cultural bridges, investment promoters and informal ambassadors whose everyday activities shape the country’s international image.
Ikpeazu also encouraged the Valencia chapter to strengthen unity among its members, support one another and explore opportunities that could contribute to the development of their host community and Abia State.
The Ambassador, who assumed office in September 2026 after presenting his Letters of Credence to King Felipe VI of Spain, commended the association’s leadership and members for sustaining the organisation for 16 years.
He assured Nigerians in Spain of the Embassy’s commitment to their welfare, adding that his administration was ready to work harmoniously with community associations to address issues affecting them and strengthen relations between Nigeria and Spain.
Earlier, the Chairman of Ndi Abia in Diaspora, Valencia Chapter, Mr. Endy Okoroafor, expressed appreciation to members for their resilience, unity and commitment to sustaining the association.
Okoroafor paid tribute to the founding members, past leaders and elders who established the organisation 16 years ago with the vision of providing mutual support and building a lasting legacy for future generations.
He also announced that the association, formerly known as Abia State Congress in Diaspora, had successfully secured full registration after encountering difficulties under previous administrations.
The chairman reaffirmed the group’s commitment to the Igbo principle of Onye Aghala Nwanne Ya, meaning “let no one leave their brother behind”, stressing that Abians remained united regardless of their local government areas of origin.
The anniversary celebration featured cultural performances, reflections on the association’s journey, the unveiling of Almalac, presentation of awards and networking among Abia indigenes in Valencia.
The event highlighted the growing role of organised diaspora associations in preserving cultural identity, promoting community development and strengthening Nigeria’s relationship with other countries.
