By Our Correspondent
National News – Vice President Kashim Shettima welcomed the Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, Ignazio Cassis, his spouse, Paola Rodoni Cassis, and other Swiss delegation members at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
The dignitaries were received amid high-level protocol and media coverage, marking a key step in strengthening Nigeria-Switzerland relations.
The visit, according to a statement by Shettima’s media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, will include discussions on trade enhancement, migration cooperation, and human capital development.
The agenda emphasizes boosting bilateral ties, exploring new opportunities for investment, and fostering sustainable development in both nations.
The Swiss delegation comprised Ambassador Patricia Danzig, Director of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation; Ambassador Philip Stalder, Head of the Africa Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ambassador Tim Enderlin, Head of the Peace and Human Rights Division; and Ambassador Patrick Egloff, Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria.
The group engaged in strategic talks with Shettima and Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighting mutual interests in regional security, trade facilitation, and educational exchange programs.
During the meeting, both vice presidents discussed pathways for enhancing economic cooperation, increasing trade volumes, and facilitating mobility for skilled professionals between Nigeria and Switzerland.
Issues related to migration policies, capacity building, and youth development were also prioritized.
The talks reflect ongoing diplomatic efforts to deepen collaboration and strengthen political and economic partnerships.
The visit reinforces Nigeria-Switzerland diplomatic relations, providing a platform for exchanging best practices in governance, human rights, and trade facilitation.
Observers note that these engagements are expected to result in actionable frameworks to boost bilateral investment and joint projects across various sectors.
