Capacity building of RSMs crucial for enhanced regimentation – COAS

The Nigerian Army’s (NA) operational performance as custodians of discipline and regimentation, according to the Chief Of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, is dependent on the capacity building of Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSMs).

Faruk made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the First RSM Convention 2022, which has the topic “Capacity Building for RSMs in the Nigerian Army for Enhanced Regimentation.”

The event which started on May 9 will last till May 12, 2022 at the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps Headquarters, Nebo Hall, Abalti Barracks, Ojuelegba, Lagos State.

Maj.-Gen. Usman Mohammed, Chief of Administration, NA, represented the COAS.

Discipline and regimentation, according to Faruk, are essential aspects for any professional army’s operational performance.

In his words, “This aligns with my philosophy of building a professional Nigerian Army ready to accomplish assigned missions within a joint environment in the defence of Nigeria.”

The COAS approved the convention being moved from 7 Division, NA, Maiduguri, Borno to 81 Division, NA, Victoria Island, Lagos State.

He stated that he did not want to disrupt the ongoing Operation DESERT SANITY, which he claimed had been a major success.

“I also approved the bi-annual hosting of the RSM Convention considering the pivotal roles of the RSMs in Nigerian Army’s activities.

“The RSM cadre constantly interfaces between the Non Commissioned Officers (NCOS} and commissioned officers, hence, the need to continuously equip them with current professional knowledge in the ever-evolving security environment.

“I hope that, at the end of this convention, the NA will witness improvement in discipline and regimentation in all units, formations and other NA establishments across the country,” Faruk said.

He implored the RSMs to take seriously the responsibilities of ensuring that the cherished traditions, customs and ethics of the NA are continuously upheld.