The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called on Regimental Sergeant Majors, RSMs, of the Nigerian Army to strengthen discipline, mentorship and regimentation as the Service intensifies efforts to expand and modernise its operations.
Shaibu said the role of RSMs was critical to improving the Army's operational effectiveness, strengthening professionalism and enhancing national security.
He gave the directive on Friday at the closing ceremony of the Second Regimental Sergeant Majors' Convention 2026 held in Benin City, Edo State.
The five-day convention, which began on November 2, brought together RSMs from various Army formations and units, as well as representatives of sister Services and other security agencies.
The Army chief described RSMs as custodians of the Service's professional values and fighting spirit, noting that they serve as mentors to soldiers, advisers to commanders and guardians of military traditions.
He explained that their responsibilities extended beyond maintaining appearances during parades to ensuring discipline on the battlefield, proper conduct without supervision and dedication to duty, even under difficult circumstances.
Shaibu urged the RSMs to intensify efforts to address misconduct among personnel, particularly drug abuse, gambling, absenteeism and the misuse of social media, warning that such behaviours could weaken military discipline and professionalism.
He also praised the lecture delivered by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa, rtd., describing the discussion on tackling drug abuse as particularly commendable.
Earlier, the COAS visited Headquarters 4 Brigade, where he applauded officers and soldiers for their contributions to maintaining peace and security within their area of responsibility.
He disclosed that some of the operational difficulties presented by the Brigade Commander during the visit had already received prompt attention.
The Army chief charged the troops to remain committed to protecting lives and property, defending the interests of Nigerians and confronting criminal elements threatening security.
However, he cautioned that military operations must be conducted professionally and in strict compliance with established laws, stressing the need to give priority to civilian protection.
He further urged RSMs and other personnel to uphold discipline, professionalism and dedication to their constitutional duties, emphasising that strong regimentation and exemplary conduct were necessary for developing a more combat-ready and resilient Army.
Shaibu expressed appreciation to the General Officer Commanding, GOC, 2 Division, resource persons and the Edo State Government, as well as the people of the state, for their contributions to the successful organisation of the convention.
He also acknowledged the continued support of President Bola Tinubu, in his capacity as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Army Chief tasks Regimental Sergeant Majors on discipline, mentorship, professionalism