Nigeria, Switzerland Push to Deepen Security Cooperation With Focus on Non-Military Approaches

By Zainab Uzomah

Nigeria and Switzerland say they are moving to strengthen their long-standing defence partnership, with a renewed emphasis on non-kinetic strategies aimed at tackling the root causes of insecurity.

The commitment was announced during a visit by the Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Patrick Felix Egloff, to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General O.O. Oluyede, at Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.

Ambassador Egloff said Switzerland remains committed to expanding cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in areas that prioritize humanitarian engagement, peacebuilding and stability efforts. He highlighted the need for approaches that address insecurity beyond the battlefield—through dialogue, development support and institutional capacity-building.

General Oluyede welcomed the ambassador’s visit and praised Switzerland’s ongoing support for non-kinetic initiatives in Nigeria, describing them as essential complements to military operations across the country. He expressed confidence that the partnership would continue to deepen, producing more impactful outcomes in shared areas of interest.

The meeting underscores both nations’ belief that long-term security requires a blend of military readiness and robust civilian-led strategies that promote peace and resilience.