Nigeria and Switzerland have strengthened bilateral relations with renewed commitments on trade, security, immigration and cultural cooperation, alongside concrete steps toward the return of looted Benin artefacts.
The agreement was reached during a high level meeting in Abuja, where Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Yusuf Tuggar, hosted Switzerland’s Foreign Minister, Ignazio Cassis.
Speaking after the meeting, Tuggar said the renewed partnership reflects a shared commitment to mutual growth and respect.
“Nigeria and Switzerland enjoy long standing relations, and today’s engagement has opened new pathways for cooperation in trade, security, migration and cultural exchange,” he said.
On the planned return of artefacts, Mr Tuggar described it as a significant step toward justice and cultural restoration.
“The return of Benin artefacts taken during the Benin Expedition of 1897 is not just symbolic but a recognition of our history and identity,” he added.
Also speaking, Cassis reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria across multiple sectors.
The foreign minister said “We are deepening our collaboration with Nigeria, particularly in economic development, security cooperation and migration management,”
Both countries agreed to boost trade and investment by encouraging private sector partnerships, while enhancing cooperation to tackle transnational crimes and promote safe, orderly migration.
The engagement is expected to further strengthen diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Switzerland, while advancing cultural restitution efforts.
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