By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
Nigeria and Switzerland have moved to deepen their defence relationship, placing strong emphasis on non-kinetic strategies aimed at peacebuilding, humanitarian engagement and long-term stability.
The renewed commitment was underscored on Thursday when the Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Patrick Felix Egloff, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi O. Oluyede, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, Ambassador Egloff reaffirmed Switzerland’s determination to strengthen diplomatic and defence cooperation with Nigeria, stressing that his country is keen on supporting approaches that go beyond the battlefield.
According to him, Switzerland’s interest lies largely in non-kinetic interventions that address the root causes of insecurity, including humanitarian support, dialogue-driven initiatives and institutional partnerships designed to promote peace and social stability.
The Ambassador noted that sustained collaboration between both countries remains critical, particularly in developing frameworks that combine security, development and diplomacy to tackle emerging threats.
Responding, General Oluyede welcomed the Swiss envoy and expressed appreciation for Switzerland’s continued interest in Nigeria’s security architecture.
He acknowledged the country’s contributions to non-kinetic efforts and described such partnerships as vital complements to ongoing military operations across the country.
The Defence Chief stressed that while kinetic operations remain necessary, durable peace can only be achieved through a balanced approach that integrates humanitarian engagement, peacebuilding and strategic cooperation.
He expressed optimism that the Nigeria-Switzerland defence relationship would continue to grow stronger, producing more impactful outcomes in areas of shared interest, particularly peacebuilding, capacity development and strategic collaboration.
Observers say the meeting highlights a growing shift in Nigeria’s defence diplomacy towards inclusive security models that blend military strength with dialogue, development and international partnerships.
The engagement also underscores the importance both nations attach to constructive engagement as a pathway to sustainable security and regional stability.
