South African Army Chief visits Nigeria’s National Defence College to boost defence ties

By Zainab Uzomah|Abuja

The Chief of the South African Army, Lieutenant General 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.

According to a statement signed by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the visit on 9 March 2026 was aimed at deepening collaboration between the two countries, which are regarded as key strategic partners in Africa’s security architecture.

During the visit, Lieutenant General Mbatha commended the college for its role in developing strategic leaders capable of addressing complex security challenges across the continent. He said institutions such as the National Defence College provide an important platform for strengthening cooperation, knowledge exchange and collective approaches to peace and security among African militaries.

The South African Army Chief also stressed that the evolving security environment in Africa requires deeper collaboration among defence institutions and military leaders. He noted that professional military education remains vital in preparing senior officers for strategic decision-making, defence management and leadership responsibilities in modern security operations.

Responding on behalf of the Commandant, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, Rear Admiral Muhammed Dahiru welcomed the delegation, describing the visit as a demonstration of the enduring defence relationship between Nigeria and South Africa. He said such high-level engagements would further strengthen strategic cooperation and professional exchanges aimed at enhancing peace and security across the continent.The Commandant added that the National Defence College remains Nigeria’s apex institution for strategic military education, preparing 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, promoting regional and international cooperation in addressing security challenges.

As part of the visit, Lieutenant General Mbatha and his delegation toured the Nigerian Army Museum, where he commended the Nigerian Army for preserving historical artefacts that honour the sacrifices of fallen soldiers and reflect the institution’s commitment to safeguarding its military heritage and institutional memory.