Nigeria and Switzerland are set to enhance their bilateral relations, focusing on key areas such as trade, security, economic cooperation, migration, and cultural exchange.
This commitment was solidified during a meeting between Nigeria's Vice President Kashim Shettima and his Swiss counterpart, Ignazio Cassis, on Tuesday. The encounter took place at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
Following their discussions, Cassis, who also holds the position of Switzerland's Foreign Minister, indicated that the talks centred on deepening cooperation in various domains. He mentioned the possibility of a free trade agreement involving Nigeria and the broader African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
"We are considering improving our bilateral relations and analysing the opportunity of making a free trade agreement with the AfCFTA family and Nigeria," Cassis stated.
He further elaborated on Switzerland's support for Nigeria's initiatives to combat insecurity in the North-East region, emphasizing diplomatic engagement and collaborative efforts.
Cassis also highlighted Switzerland's contributions to vocational training within Nigeria, noting that Swiss companies are actively involved in equipping young Nigerians with essential skills to enhance their employability and foster peaceful coexistence.
"Swiss companies in Nigeria are creating conditions for young people to be skilled enough to secure jobs for the future," he affirmed.
The Swiss Vice President also confirmed that both nations are intensifying their collaboration on migration issues and cultural exchange. A significant aspect of this cooperation includes arrangements for the repatriation of cultural artefacts.
Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, characterized the meeting as a continuation of the enduring relationship between the two countries, which officially began in 1961. He confirmed Switzerland's agreement to return Benin bronzes and other artefacts to Nigeria, a move that reinforces cultural ties.
"There are Benin bronzes that are going to be returned from Switzerland. This was highly appreciated," Tuggar remarked.
He added that Cassis expressed a keen interest in expanding Swiss investments in Nigeria and planned to engage with the private sector during his visit to Lagos.
Minister Tuggar also conveyed Vice President Shettima's positive reception of the meeting's outcomes, reiterating Nigeria's dedication to maintaining its engagement with Switzerland, including its participation in the World Economic Forum in Davos.
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