The University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Swiss Consulate in Nigeria have expressed readiness to strengthen their existing relationship through collaborative research, innovation and industry partnerships aimed at addressing societal challenges.
This commitment emerged during a courtesy visit by the Swiss Consul General, Ms. Conny Camenzind, to the University Management on Thursday, October 22, 2026.
Receiving the Consul General at the Vice-Chancellor’s Conference Room, Senate House, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, described the engagement as a welcome step towards deepening ties.
The Consul General, who was accompanied by Swiss Trade Officer and UNILAG alumnus, Mr. David Isiekwene, said the visit was part of efforts to consolidate the longstanding relationship between UNILAG and Switzerland. She identified potential areas for collaboration involving Swiss companies and organisations, including waste management, healthcare, HIV, sickle cell disease, architecture and cybersecurity, among others.
Ms. Camenzind expressed interest in exploring opportunities to connect relevant industry stakeholders with UNILAG researchers and faculty members whose expertise can contribute to addressing pressing human needs. The visit, she explained, aligns with the Swiss Embassy’s mandate to promote Switzerland’s interests, strengthen partnerships and facilitate engagement between Swiss companies operating in Nigeria.
The Swiss Consul General also highlighted the forthcoming Geneva AI Summit, scheduled for June 2027, as part of broader international efforts to establish frameworks and principles for the research, deployment and adoption of artificial intelligence worldwide.
In her remarks, Professor Ogunsola acknowledged the longstanding relationship between UNILAG and the Swiss Government, particularly in the areas of healthcare, entrepreneurship and innovation.
She reaffirmed UNILAG’s commitment to engaging with industry and international partners to create opportunities for students and faculty members, while advancing research that addresses contemporary societal challenges.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Development Services, Professor Foluso Afolabi Lesi, made a presentation highlighting UNILAG’s institutional values, research milestones, achievements in artificial intelligence (AI), alumni accomplishments and rankings at national, continental and global levels. He reiterated the University’s commitment to research-driven innovation and the development of solutions to local challenges with global implications.
At the end of the meeting, both parties expressed optimism about strengthening collaboration to advance research, expand the frontiers of knowledge and promote innovative solutions that improve lives.
Report: Gbenga Gbelee
Photograph: Ayo Oloyede
