By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSMs) of the Nigerian Army to strengthen discipline, mentorship and regimentation as the Service advances its ongoing expansion and modernisation drive to enhance operational effectiveness and national security.
According to an official statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations, the COAS gave the charge on Friday, November 6, 2026, during the closing ceremony of the Second Regimental Sergeant Majors’ Convention 2026 in Benin City, Edo State.
The five-day convention, held from November 2 to 6, brought together RSMs from various Army formations and units, alongside representatives of sister Services and other security agencies.
Lieutenant General Shaibu described RSMs as custodians of the Nigerian Army’s professional character and fighting spirit, noting that they serve as mentors to soldiers, advisers to commanders and guardians of the institution’s core values.
He emphasised that their responsibilities go beyond maintaining smartness on parade to include enforcing discipline in the field, ensuring responsible conduct without supervision and promoting commitment to duty under demanding conditions.
The COAS urged the RSMs to strengthen regimentation and mentorship across Army formations while addressing behavioural challenges such as drug abuse, gambling, absenteeism and misuse of social media, which undermine military discipline and professionalism.
He particularly commended the lecture delivered by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), on combating drug abuse, describing the subject as critical to maintaining discipline and professionalism within the military.
Earlier, during a visit to Headquarters 4 Brigade, the Army Chief commended troops for their efforts in maintaining peace and security within their area of responsibility.
He disclosed that some operational challenges raised by the Brigade Commander had been promptly addressed, while charging the troops to remain committed to protecting lives and property, safeguarding the interests of Nigerians and dealing decisively with criminal elements.
However, he emphasised that all military operations must be conducted professionally and within established legal boundaries, with particular regard for the protection of civilians.
The COAS urged both RSMs and troops to remain disciplined, professional and committed to their constitutional responsibilities, stressing that exemplary conduct and strong regimentation were essential to building a more combat-ready and resilient Nigerian Army.
He appreciated the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, resource persons and the Government and people of Edo State for their support towards the successful hosting of the convention.
He also acknowledged the sustained support of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the Nigerian Army.
