The National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) Otunba Dele Oye Otumba paid a courtesy visit to the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, his Excellency H.E Juan Sell, expressing his profound appreciation for the critical role Spain plays in the global socio-economic spectrum; especially regarding International Trade.

SPEECH

Your Excellency, H.E Juan Sell, the Spanish Ambassador,

I am honoured to be here today in the spirit of goodwill and mutual cooperation as President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA). Let me begin by expressing my profound appreciation for the critical role Spain plays in the global socio-economic spectrum, especially regarding international trade.

Our two nations have enjoyed a long-standing relationship, spanning several decades, which has resulted in increased trade and investment opportunities between our countries. The current trade between Nigeria and Spain is valued at over $4billion, and there is still room for more growth and development in the future.

As we look at the current trade agreements, I would like to call for a deeper collaboration between us, geared towards the expansion of trade opportunities building on the current MOU with the Spain Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Services and Navigation. NACCIMA will continue to work with traders, entrepreneurs, and investors in order to provide the necessary support structure for Nigerian businesses looking to invest in Spain, and vice versa. Beyond the economic benefits, Spain has made several unique contributions to the world, including:

Spanish architecture: Spain boasts of some of the world’s most exquisite architectural designs, ranging from famous landmarks such as the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, La Alhambra in Granada, and the Royal Palace of Madrid. These structures are not only notable for their beauty and grandeur.

Flamenco: Flamenco is a significant cultural heritage of Spain. This dance form, which originated from Andalusia in southern Spain, is a
fusion of several cultural influences. The dance continues to fascinate audiences around the world.

Spanish cuisine: Spanish cuisine is a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural heritage. From iconic dishes such as paella, gazpacho, and tortilla to modern-day tapas, there is no shortage of delicious Spanish dishes.

Art: Spain has produced numerous famous artists, including Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro, Salvador Dali, Francisco Goya, and Diego Velazquez. These artists have made unique contributions to the world of art, including Cubism and Surrealism.

Football: Spain is renowned worldwide for its celebrated football clubs, Real Madrid and Barcelona, which have won numerous national and international competitions.

These accomplishments are a testament to Spain’s diverse cultural heritage and contribution to the world.

Nigeria, as a country, is unique for its diverse culture, languages, and traditions. Nigeria is home to more than 250 ethnic groups, and each has its own unique customs, cuisines, and festivals. The country is also unique for its natural resources, including oil, gas, coal, and agricultural produce.

Nigeria has made significant contributions to the world in various fields. These include:

Nollywood: Nigeria’s film industry, also known as Nollywood, is the second-largest in the world after Bollywood. Nollywood produces over 2,000 movies annually, which are watched by millions of people worldwide.

Music: Nigerian music has gained global recognition, with artists such as Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy winning international awards and performing on some of the world’s biggest stages.

Literature: Nigeria has produced several notable writers, including Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who have made significant contributions to world literature.

Sports: Nigeria currently have ninety footballers in Spain Samuel Chukwueze plays for Villarel. Nigerian athletes have won numerous
medals in international competitions, including the Olympic Games and the Commonwealth Games.

Technology: Nigeria has a growing technology industry, with startups in fintech, e-commerce, and mobile technology, making innovative contributions to the world of technology.

I am confident that our partnership will continue to bring about a deeper level of interaction and cooperation between our countries and will lead to the growth and success of our businesses.

Your Excellency, please accept my sincere thanks for the warm welcome extended to me today. | look forward to strengthening our bilateral relationship and moving towards a common goal of mutual progress.

Thank you.

Hon.Dele Kelvin Oye, Esq.
National President, NACCIMA

In the company of NACCIMA’s President are; ACCI Vice President Communication Strategy and External Relations, Dr Idi Hong, NACCIMA VP, Alh. Farouk Suleiman, ACCI Director General, Victoria Akai, Mr. Kunle NACCIMA liaison officer, Adrian Cano Guerrero, Project Manager for Spanish cooperation, Madam Patricia, Spanish consular officer NIgeria.