Nigeria and Switzerland have agreed to deepen bilateral relations, focusing on trade, economic cooperation, skills development, migration, security, and cultural exchange.

The agreement was reached during a meeting between Vice President Kashim Shettima and his Swiss counterpart, Ignazio Cassis, in Abuja.

Speaking after the closed-door talks, Cassis said both countries were exploring the possibility of a free trade agreement involving Nigeria and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), alongside efforts to boost economic and diplomatic cooperation.

He added that Switzerland would continue supporting Nigeria in addressing security challenges in the North-East and expand vocational training programmes to equip young people with skills for employment.

The Swiss Vice President also highlighted plans to enhance cultural cooperation, including the return of artefacts to Nigeria and strengthened collaboration on migration issues.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, described the talks as a continuation of long-standing relations between both countries, dating back to 1961.

He disclosed that Switzerland had agreed to return Benin artefacts and expressed interest in expanding business and investment opportunities, with further engagements planned with Nigeria’s private sector.

The meeting underscores renewed efforts by both nations to expand cooperation across strategic sectors and strengthen diplomatic ties.