The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commended the Swiss Confederation for its ongoing strategic partnership with the Nigerian Army, specifically highlighting contributions to humanitarian aid and conflict prevention.
The commendation followed a courtesy visit by the Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Patrick Felix Egloff, to the Army Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
Strengthening Non-Kinetic Cooperation
During the meeting, Ambassador Egloff reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to regional stability and institutional cooperation. He emphasized that while Switzerland does not engage in kinetic military operations, it remains a global leader in “non-kinetic” interventions.
The Ambassador pledged that Switzerland would continue to support Nigerian security agencies through:
- Humanitarian assistance and dialogue facilitation.
- Capacity building for security personnel.
- Conflict-prevention initiatives.
Impact of Swiss Intervention
Lieutenant General Shaibu described Switzerland as a “pacesetter” in diplomacy. He specifically cited the Swiss government’s historical role in negotiating the 2016 release of the Chibok schoolgirls as a benchmark for successful international cooperation.
The COAS noted that such partnerships remain essential for current confidence-building efforts, referencing the recent rescue of over 300 kidnap victims across Nigeria.
Medical Support on the Frontlines
The Nigerian Army also expressed gratitude for tangible assets provided by Switzerland, notably mobile medical clinics. According to the COAS, these units have been vital in providing immediate, life-saving care to wounded soldiers on the frontline before they are evacuated to military hospitals.
Commitment to Human Rights
General Shaibu concluded the session by assuring the Swiss delegation that the Nigerian Army remains committed to professionalism and the protection of fundamental human rights. He stressed that international collaborations are vital to bolstering Nigeria’s internal security framework.
