By Chimezie Godfrey
The Chief of the South African Army, Lt-Gen Lawrence Mbatha, says his country is drawing important lessons from the operational experience of the Nigerian Army in tackling contemporary security challenges.
Mbatha spoke on Thursday at a gala night hosted in his honour by the Nigerian Army at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites, Asokoro, Abuja.
The event formed part of activities marking his official working visit to Nigeria.
He said the visit offered an opportunity for the South African Army to understudy Nigeria’s practical experience in addressing insurgency, terrorism and other asymmetric threats.
“The operational knowledge and strategies employed by the Nigerian Army offer significant insights that could strengthen South Africa’s military preparedness and enhance its capacity to respond effectively to emerging security threats,” Mbatha said.
The South African Army chief also praised the high professional standards of Nigeria’s military training institutions, particularly the Nigerian Defence Academy and the Army War College Nigeria.
He added that the institutions serve as key platforms for developing strategic military leaders.
Mbatha further reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to strengthening defence relations with Nigeria, stressing that closer cooperation between the two armies would help advance peace and security across the African continent.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Waidi Shaibu, described the visit as strategic and timely.
According to him, the engagement reinforces long-standing army-to-army cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa.
He noted that Africa continues to face evolving threats such as terrorism, insurgency, banditry and transnational organised crime.
Shaibu said the visit provided an opportunity for both armies to exchange operational experience and deepen collaboration in areas including capacity building, intelligence sharing and doctrinal development.
The event also featured cultural displays and the presentation of souvenirs to commemorate the week-long engagements.