By SUMAILA OGBAJE

The Chief of the South African Army, Lt.-Gen. Lawrence Mbatha, on Monday commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism and growing capacity in cyber warfare during a visit to the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command in Abuja.

Mbatha said the relationship between Nigeria and South Africa was longstanding and rooted in shared history and military cooperation that predated formal defence agreements.

“Some of the officers and generals you have in South Africa today are products of institutions here in Nigeria.

“Our interaction did not start today; it started many years ago,” he said.

Mbatha noted that Africa’s shared heritage and experiences should continue to drive closer cooperation among African militaries, particularly in tackling emerging security threats such as cyber warfare.

He also praised the Nigerian army for establishing the Cyber Warfare Command in 2020, describing cyber operations as a critical component of modern military strategy.

“We are learning from what you are doing here. Cyber warfare is resource-intensive, but it is a reality that we must confront in our strategic environment,” he said.

Mbatha also paid tribute to fallen soldiers of the Nigerian Army who died in the line of duty, describing them as brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of their nation.

He noted that the South African Army equally understood the pain of losing personnel in operations and emphasised the importance of honouring their sacrifices.

The South African Army Chief expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded him and members of his delegation during the visit to the command.

Earlier, the Commander of the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Kennedy Osemwegie, described the visit as historic for the command.

Osemwegie said it was a privilege to receive the South African Army Chief, noting that the event would remain a memorable milestone in the history of the command.

“Today is a memorable day that will remain in the annals of the history of this Command as we have the privilege of receiving the Chief of an Army, and we do not take this lightly,” he said.

He noted that Nigeria and South Africa shared a long and unique history that continued to shape their relations on the international stage.

“That history remains an indelible mark in international relations.

“Nothing can change it, and it is cherished by both nations,” he added.

Osemwegie expressed hope that the visit would further strengthen bilateral cooperation, especially through expanded exchange programmes and strategic engagements between the two countries.

“It is my hope that, moving forward, both nations will expand their exchange programmes and engagements so that, at the strategic level, Nigeria and South Africa can continue to advance together to greater heights,” he said.

The South African Army Chief also visited the Nigerian Army Museum where he commended the creativity of the army and its rich history. (NAN)

•PHOTO: South African Army Chief, Lt.-Gen. Lawrence Mbatha, and Commander of the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Kennedy Osemwegie, addressing the media in Abuja on Monday