South African Army Chief Seeks Expanded Defence Collaboration After Studying Nigeria’s Cyber Warfare
In a historic diplomatic and military engagement that underscored the growing importance of cyber warfare in modern security, the Chief of the South African Army, Lt.-Gen. Lawrence Mbatha, paid a landmark visit to the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command in Abuja. He hailed Nigeria’s rapid strides in cyber defence and called for stronger collaboration between Africa’s two largest powers.
Receiving the delegation, the Commander of the Command, Maj.-Gen. Kennedy Osemwegie, described the visit as a historic moment that would remain etched in the Command’s annals.
“We recognise that Nigeria and South Africa share a long and unique history. That history remains an indelible mark in international relations, and it is cherished by both nations,” Osemwegie said. He noted that the visit symbolised the deep strategic ties between the two countries and expressed hope for expanded exchanges and cooperation.
Established in 2020, the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command was created to combat emerging cyber threats, protect military digital infrastructure, and enhance Nigeria’s defence in the increasingly contested cyberspace. Osemwegie urged continued cooperation, particularly in emerging domains of warfare.
“It is my hope that moving forward, both nations will expand exchange programmes so that at the strategic level, Nigeria and South Africa can advance together to greater heights,” he said.
In response, Lt.-Gen. Mbatha praised the professionalism of the Nigerian Army and highlighted historic bonds. Though his first physical visit to Nigeria, he said his connection dates back decades, noting that many South African officers trained in Nigerian institutions. One of his two-star generals recently retired was among those he sent to Nigeria in the early 1990s.
Mbatha stressed that artificial borders had long divided people who share heritage. “We were made to believe we are different, but in reality we are not. I was born in South Africa, but I was raised by the African continent.” He also addressed perceptions of hostility toward Nigerians in South Africa, insisting that deeper cultural ties—marriages, families, and friendships—run far deeper than media headlines.
Acknowledging global cyber threats, Mbatha said South Africa is still transforming its own capabilities and will study Nigeria’s model. “From what I have seen here, this capability is not just a concept but a reality. Our forces are under constant bombardment in cyberspace. We will take lessons from Nigeria back into our strategic environment.”
He expressed condolences for Nigerian soldiers who have fallen in duty and honoured troops from both nations. As a symbol of friendship, Mbatha presented a ceremonial sword to the Command, saying the relationship is built on decades of cooperation and solidarity.
The visit is widely seen by analysts as a significant step toward deeper African military cooperation in the rapidly evolving domain of cyber warfare.
