Nigeria and Switzerland have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations across key sectors, including trade, security, economic cooperation, migration, and cultural exchange.
The agreement followed a meeting on Tuesday between Vice President Kashim Shettima and his Swiss counterpart, Ignazio Cassis, at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
Speaking after the meeting, Cassis, who also serves as Switzerlandâs Foreign Minister, said discussions focused on deepening cooperation in multiple areas, including a potential free trade agreement with Nigeria and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
âWe are considering improving our bilateral relations and analysing the opportunity of making a free trade agreement with the AfCFTA family and Nigeria,â he said.
He added that Switzerland is supporting Nigeriaâs efforts to address insecurity in the North-East through diplomatic engagement and cooperation.
Cassis also highlighted Switzerlandâs contribution to vocational training in Nigeria, noting that Swiss companies are helping to equip young Nigerians with skills for employment and peaceful coexistence.
âSwiss companies in Nigeria are creating conditions for young people to be skilled enough to secure jobs for the future,â he said.
The Swiss Vice President further disclosed that both countries are enhancing cooperation on migration and cultural exchange, including plans for the restitution of cultural artefacts.
Nigeriaâs Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, described the meeting as a continuation of longstanding relations between both countries, which date back to 1961.
He confirmed that Switzerland has agreed to return Benin bronzes and other artefacts to Nigeria as part of efforts to strengthen cultural ties.
âThere are Benin bronzes that are going to be returned from Switzerland. This was highly appreciated,â Tuggar said.
He also noted that Cassis expressed interest in expanding Swiss investments in Nigeria, with plans to engage the private sector during his visit to Lagos.
The minister added that Vice President Shettima welcomed the outcomes of the meeting and reaffirmed Nigeriaâs commitment to sustaining engagement with Switzerland, including participation in the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Deji Elumoye
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