Nigeria and Spain have moved to solidify a “strategic partnership” following high-level talks in Abuja focused on counter-terrorism, maritime migration, and energy trade. The meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the Spanish Ambassador, Félix Costales Artieda, signaled a push to modernize diplomatic ties that have long been dominated by the oil and gas trade.
Tackling the ‘Human Cost’ of Terror
Security dominated the agenda, with both nations agreeing to expand cooperation beyond military hardware. Ambassador Costales highlighted Spain’s recent work with Nigeria’s National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), specifically focusing on the victims of attacks.Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu welcomed this humanitarian approach, noting that while “kinetic” military responses are necessary, the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons (IDPs) is vital for long-term stability.” Social cohesion and de-radicalization are integral components of our national security architecture,” the Minister stated.
Migration and the Mediterranean
With Nigeria’s youth population booming—roughly 86% of the country is under the age of 45—the talks turned to the “tragic loss of lives” along irregular migration routes toward Europe. The two diplomats discussed:
Economic Alternatives: Creating jobs at home to reduce the pressure on young Nigerians to attempt the dangerous crossing toward Spanish territories like Ceuta and Melilla.
Legal Frameworks: Spain confirmed it has ratified a 2022 extradition agreement, awaiting Nigeria’s final procedural sign-off.
Documentation: Plans to streamline police clearance and residency paperwork for the Nigerian diaspora currently living in Spain.
Energy and Beyond
Spain remains one of Nigeria’s most significant customers for natural gas, but both sides admitted that broader commercial investment is “below potential.”
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu, a former envoy to Madrid, urged Spanish firms to look toward Nigeria’s renewable energy and digital sectors, citing the country’s ongoing economic reforms as a “new window of opportunity.”
Regional Stability
The dialogue concluded with a focus on West African security. Spain reaffirmed its support for ECOWAS, while Nigeria reiterated its leadership role in defending constitutional governance across a region that has seen a string of recent military coups.
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