The Chief of the South African Army, Lieutenant General Lawrence Mbatha, has commended the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command for its growing capabilities and professionalism in modern military cyber operations.
Mbatha gave the commendation on Monday during an official visit to Abuja where he toured the facilities of the Cyber Warfare Command and interacted with officers of the Nigerian Army.
According to a statement issued by the Nigerian Army, the South African Army chief observed the command’s progress in developing technological capabilities required to confront modern digital threats.
He praised the command for the progress recorded since its establishment in 2020.
Mbatha noted that cyber warfare has become an essential component of contemporary military operations around the world.
“The Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command has made remarkable progress since its establishment, and its growing capabilities demonstrate the Nigerian Army’s commitment to addressing emerging digital threats,” he said.
He added that modern military forces must continuously adapt to the evolving security environment.
“Cyber capabilities are now indispensable in modern warfare and are central to safeguarding national security interests,” Mbatha stated.
The visiting army chief also emphasised the longstanding military and historical ties between Nigeria and South Africa.
According to him, several South African officers have previously undergone professional military training in Nigeria.
Mbatha stressed the importance of sustaining collaboration and knowledge exchange between the armed forces of both countries.
He noted that professional exchanges and joint training programmes would strengthen the operational capacity of both armies.
Welcoming the delegation, the Commander of the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Major General Kennedy Osemwegie, described the visit as historic.
Osemwegie said the presence of the South African Army chief underscored the strong partnership between Nigeria and South Africa.
“This visit is historic and memorable for the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command. It reflects the enduring relationship between our two nations and their armed forces,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the visit would deepen cooperation in cyber warfare, training and strategic defence collaboration.
The Nigerian Army commander added that the partnership between both countries remains a key pillar of international military cooperation.
He also emphasised that the Nigerian Army remains committed to strengthening its cyber capabilities in order to respond effectively to emerging security threats in the digital domain.