Ikpeazu Seeks Stronger Nigeria-Spain Partnership in Agriculture, Food Security

Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain, His Excellency Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, has called for stronger collaboration between Nigeria and Spain in agriculture, technology transfer and food preservation to boost food production and strengthen food security.

Ikpeazu made the call on Thursday, September 17, 2026, during a courtesy visit to Spain’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas Puchades, at the Palacio de Fomento in Madrid.

The Spanish Minister warmly received the Ambassador and congratulated him on his appointment as Nigeria’s principal envoy to Spain, as well as the successful presentation of his Letters of Credence to King Felipe VI.

Planas said Ikpeazu’s assumption of duty would further strengthen the cordial relations between Nigeria and Spain, particularly in agro-food production, animal health and irrigation.

He highlighted Spain’s technological advances in crop disease prevention and the development of improved, high-yielding seedlings, which he said had contributed significantly to large-scale agricultural and livestock production.

According to the Minister, Nigeria’s vast arable land, covering more than 40 per cent of the country’s total land area, offers significant opportunities for increased food production and value-chain development.

He explained that Spain’s ability to produce more food than it imports was driven by improved seedlings, effective food preservation policies and consumption strategies.

Planas further noted that the application of innovative technologies contributed to a 20 per cent reduction in food losses in 2025, while additional preventive measures were being implemented.

Responding, Ambassador Ikpeazu expressed appreciation for the warm reception and the opportunity to discuss areas of mutual interest between both countries.

He said increased agricultural production remained a priority of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in view of Nigeria’s large youth population and the enormous opportunities within the agricultural value chain.

The Ambassador said fully harnessing Nigeria’s agricultural potential would strengthen food security, create employment opportunities and contribute to addressing irregular migration across Africa.

Ikpeazu commended Spain’s innovations in improved seed production, livestock development and food preservation, stressing Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with the country to increase agricultural productivity and reduce losses caused by inadequate storage, preservation and transportation facilities.

He also highlighted the contribution of Spanish investments in Nigeria, particularly GB Foods’ operations in Kebbi and Ogun States.

According to him, the introduction of improved seedlings through the company’s operations has increased tomato yields from about 10 tonnes to more than 60 tonnes per hectare.

The Ambassador further expressed Nigeria’s interest in expanding animal production for domestic consumption and export, while seeking Spanish partnership and expertise in developing the sector.

At the meeting, both sides agreed on the need for closer collaboration, technology transfer and investment promotion to deepen economic and agricultural ties between Nigeria and Spain.

They also committed to facilitating and considering proposals from relevant government agencies and private-sector stakeholders aimed at expanding cooperation and strengthening the existing relations between the two countries.
Embassy of Nigeria, Madrid
September 18, 2026