Lieutenant General Lawrence Mbatha has says the South African Army is drawing important lessons from the Nigerian Army’s operational experience in addressing complex and evolving security challenges across the continent.
Lieutenant General Mbatha made the disclosure on Thursday during a Gala Night hosted in his honour by the Nigerian Army at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites.
The event is part of activities marking his official working visit to Nigeria.
Lieutenant General Mbatha said “the visit provided an important opportunity for the South African Army to study Nigeria’s practical operational experience in addressing insurgency, terrorism, and other asymmetric security challenges, as contained in a statement issued by the Director Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele.”
The South African Army Chief said that “the operational knowledge and strategies developed by the Nigerian Army through years of sustained engagement in counter-insurgency operations offer valuable insights that could strengthen South Africa’s military preparedness and enhance its ability to respond effectively to emerging threats.”
He also commended the professional standards maintained by Nigeria’s military training institutions, particularly the Nigerian Defence Academy and the Army War College Nigeria, describing them as ‘critical platforms for developing competent and strategic military leaders.’
Lieutenant General Mbatha reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to strengthening defence collaboration with Nigeria, emphasising that sustained cooperation between both Armies would contribute significantly to advancing peace, stability, and security across Africa.
He further observed that some perceptions about Nigeria were largely based on misconceptions, which he said were quickly dispelled by the warmth, humility, and professionalism he experienced during the visit.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described the visit as strategic and timely, noting that it further reinforces the enduring Army-to-Army partnership between Nigeria and South Africa.
Lieutenant General Shaibu explained that “the relationship between both countries is anchored on shared values, mutual respect, and a common commitment to promoting peace, security, and development across the African continent.”
He also observed that Africa continues to confront evolving threats including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and transnational organised crime.
Lieutenant General Shaibu noted that “the visit provided a valuable platform for both armies to exchange operational experiences, deepen institutional collaboration, and explore new areas of cooperation in capacity building, leadership development, intelligence sharing, and doctrinal advancement.”
He reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to building a highly professional, well-trained, and combat-ready force while sustaining collaboration with strategic partners such as the South African Army to effectively address emerging security challenges across the continent.
The Gala Night featured cultural performances and presentation of souvenirs in appreciation of the South African Army Chief’s week-long engagements with the Nigerian Army