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The Chief of the South African Army, Lieutenant General Lawrence Mbatha has lauded the pivotal role of National Defence College in developing strategic leaders capable of addressing complex security challenges across the African continent.
He noted that institutions such as the NDC serve as vital platforms for strengthening cooperation, knowledge exchange, and collective approaches to peace and security among African militaries.
The Chief of the South African Army, Lieutenant General Lawrence Mbatha, who visited the college in Abuja on Monday, 9th March 2026, said the visit was part of efforts to strengthen defence collaboration and professional military education between Nigeria and South Africa, two key strategic partners in Africa’s security architecture.
The South African Army Chief emphasized that the evolving security environment across Africa requires deeper collaboration among defence institutions and military leaders.
He stressed that professional military education remains essential for preparing senior officers to effectively manage strategic decision-making, defence management and leadership responsibilities in contemporary security operations.
Responding, the Commandant, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, represented by Rear Admiral Muhammed Dahiru welcomed the delegation and described the visit as a clear demonstration of the strong and enduring defence relationship between Nigeria and South Africa.
He noted that such high-level engagements will further strengthen strategic cooperation, deepen professional exchanges and reinforce collaborative efforts toward enhancing peace and security across the continent.
The Commandant disclosed that the National Defence College 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.
He pointed out that the College hosts participants from several allied countries, thereby promoting regional and international cooperation in tackling security challenges.
Spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, Colonel Appolonia Anele added in a statement that as part of his strategic visit, Lieutenant General Lawrence Mbatha also led a delegation on a guided tour of the Nigerian Army Museum, where he commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism and commitment to preserving historical artefacts that honour the sacrifices of fallen heroes, noting that documenting materials from various theatres of operation reflects the strong dedication of the Nigerian Army to safeguarding its military heritage and institutional memory.
