Nigeria, Switzerland Strengthen Ties as Bern Pledges Return of Benin Bronzes

Nigeria, Switzerland Strengthen Ties as Bern Pledges Return of Benin Bronzes
Seal New Deals on Trade, Security, Cultural Exchange
Tuggar described the move as a significant step in reinforcing cultural ties between both nations

Nigeria and Switzerland have agreed to strengthen their bilateral relationship across key sectors, including trade, economic cooperation, security, migration, and cultural exchange with a major highlight being Switzerland’s commitment to return looted Benin artefacts.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that the agreement followed a high-level meeting between Vice President Kashim Shettima and his Swiss counterpart Ignazio Cassis at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

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Speaking after the closed-door meeting, Cassis said both countries are exploring opportunities to deepen economic ties, including the possibility of a trade agreement involving Nigeria and the African Continental Free Trade Area.

He noted that the discussions also covered Swiss investments in Nigeria and ways to unlock new business opportunities for both countries.

Cassis highlighted ongoing collaboration in addressing security challenges, particularly in Nigeria’s North-East, as well as efforts to improve vocational training for young Nigerians.

According to him, Swiss companies operating in Nigeria are helping to equip youths with practical skills, creating pathways to employment and social stability.

He also pointed to continued cooperation on migration issues, with both countries maintaining regular engagement to manage and strengthen migration frameworks.

Nigeria, Switzerland Strengthen Ties as Bern Pledges Return of Benin Bronzes

One of the major outcomes of the meeting is Switzerland’s pledge to return Benin bronzes and other cultural artefacts to Nigeria.

Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, described the move as a significant step in reinforcing cultural ties between both nations.

He revealed that Switzerland’s Minister of Culture is expected to visit Nigeria soon as part of the restitution process — a development widely welcomed by Nigerian authorities.

The talks also reaffirmed the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and Switzerland, which dates back to 1961.

Vice President Shettima reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to sustaining engagement with Switzerland, including active participation in global platforms such as the World Economic Forum.

Cassis, in turn, commended Nigeria’s consistent presence at the forum and congratulated the country on the recent commissioning of its Nigeria House in Davos.