The Chief of the South African Army, Lieutenant General Lawrence Mbatha, has hailed the Nigerian Army as a model in combating insurgency, terrorism, and other complex security threats, revealing that South Africa is learning from Nigeria’s operational expertise to strengthen its own military readiness.

Nigeria’s Operational Strategies a Blueprint for the Continent.

Speaking at a Gala Night in his honour at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites, Lieutenant General Mbatha emphasized that Nigeria’s hands-on experience in counter-insurgency and asymmetric warfare offers invaluable lessons for regional security forces.

“Nigeria’s approach provides insights that will enhance South Africa’s capacity to respond effectively to emerging security threats,” he said, commending the professionalism of Nigeria’s military training institutions, including the Nigerian Defence Academy and the Army War College Nigeria.

Strengthening Africa-to-Africa Military Collaboration.

Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Army Staff of Nigeria, described the visit as strategic and timely, noting that inter-military cooperation is crucial as Africa faces evolving threats like terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and transnational crime.

“The engagements allow us to share operational experiences, deepen institutional collaboration, and explore new avenues in leadership development, intelligence sharing, and doctrinal innovation,” he said.
Gala Night Celebrates Partnership and Culture.

The week-long visit culminated in a Gala Night featuring cultural displays and the presentation of commemorative souvenirs, symbolizing the strengthened ties between the Nigerian and South African armies and the shared commitment to peace, stability, and security across Africa.