By Harriet Tornguvan
The Chief of the South African Army, Lawrence Mbatha, has visited the National Defence College Nigeria in Abuja as part of efforts to strengthen defence cooperation and professional military education between Nigeria and South Africa.
The strategic visit underscores the growing military collaboration between the two countries, widely regarded as key partners in Africa’s evolving security architecture.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, Lieutenant General Mbatha commended the College for its crucial role in grooming strategic leaders capable of addressing complex security challenges across the African continent.
He noted that institutions such as the National Defence College Nigeria serve as vital platforms for strengthening cooperation, knowledge exchange and collective approaches to peace and security among African militaries.
The South African Army Chief stressed that the changing security environment across Africa demands deeper collaboration among defence institutions and military leaders. According to him, professional military education remains critical in preparing senior officers for strategic decision-making, defence management and leadership responsibilities in modern security operations.
Responding on behalf of the Commandant of the College, Abdullahi Ahmed, Rear Admiral Muhammed Dahiru welcomed the delegation and described the visit as a strong demonstration of the enduring defence relationship between Nigeria and South Africa.
He said high-level engagements of this nature would further deepen strategic cooperation, enhance professional exchanges and strengthen collaborative efforts aimed at promoting peace and security across the continent.
The Commandant also explained that the National Defence College Nigeria remains Nigeria’s apex institution for strategic military education, designed to prepare selected senior military officers and civilian officials for higher responsibilities in national security, defence management and policy formulation. The College also hosts participants from several allied countries, thereby promoting regional and international cooperation in addressing security challenges.
As part of the visit, Lieutenant General Mbatha led his delegation on a guided tour of the Nigerian Army Museum, where he commended the Nigerian Army for preserving historical artefacts that honour the sacrifices of fallen soldiers.
He noted that documenting materials from various theatres of operation reflects the Nigerian Army’s strong commitment to safeguarding its military heritage and institutional memory.
