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.
This was contained in a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Acting Director, Army Public Relations.
According to the statement, the COAS gave the charge on Friday, 6 November 2026, during the closing ceremony of the Second Regimental Sergeant Majors’ Convention 2026 in Benin City, Edo State.
The statement said the five-day convention, held from 2 to 6 November, brought together RSMs from across Army formations and units, alongside representatives of sister services and security agencies.
Lieutenant General Shaibu described RSMs as custodians of the Army’s professional character and fighting spirit, serving as mentors to soldiers, advisers to commanders and guardians of institutional values.
He stressed that their effectiveness goes beyond smartness on parade to include discipline in the field, conduct without supervision and commitment to duty under demanding conditions.
He urged them to strengthen regimentation and mentorship 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 by the Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa, rtd, on combating drug abuse.
Earlier, during a visit to Headquarters 4 Brigade, the COAS 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.
The Army Chief charged the troops to protect lives and property, safeguard the interests of Nigerians and deal decisively with criminal elements.
He, however, emphasised that all operations must be conducted professionally and within established legal boundaries, with particular regard for the protection of civilians.