By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has inaugurated its maiden Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSM) Convention for 2026 in Kaduna, in a strategic move to reinforce leadership, discipline, and professional excellence across the Service.
According to an official signed statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 1 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Ajemasu Yake Jingina, the convention, themed “Empowering Regimental Sergeant Majors to Drive Combat Readiness and Professional Excellence,” is being held at the JN Garba Hall, Postgraduate School, Old Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, from 3 to 7 May 2026.
In his opening remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, NAM, described Regimental Sergeant Majors as the “backbone of discipline” and a critical link between commissioned officers and soldiers. Represented by the Commandant, Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, Major General Dangana Allu, the Army Chief emphasised that the influence of RSMs extends beyond routine barracks administration to operational effectiveness in the field.
“In operational theatres, your leadership inspires troops to remain mission-oriented and disciplined under extreme pressure,” he stated, adding that the convention is designed to reposition RSMs through enhanced capacity building and renewed emphasis on the Army’s core values and traditions.
Also speaking, the Chief of Administration (Army), Major General Isa Abdullahi, described the convention as a significant step towards strengthening the Army’s administrative and operational architecture. He noted that the unique position occupied by RSMs within the command structure makes their professional development vital to overall force effectiveness.
The General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Abubakar Sadique Muhammad Wase, who hosted the event, welcomed participants and described the convention as a deliberate platform for the exchange of ideas and best practices. He stressed that well-trained and empowered RSMs serve as force multipliers in enhancing operational performance.
The five-day convention features a comprehensive programme of expert lectures, interactive sessions, and professional engagements aimed at strengthening knowledge-sharing and fostering esprit de corps among senior non-commissioned officers.
The initiative underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to building a highly disciplined, motivated, and combat-ready force capable of addressing contemporary security challenges while upholding the highest standards of professionalism.
