COAS Charges Army RSMs to Strengthen Discipline, Mentorship, Regimentation
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 continues its expansion and modernisation efforts to improve operational effectiveness and national security.
The COAS gave the charge on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 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, as well as 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 Service’s core values.
He stressed that their responsibilities go beyond maintaining smartness during parades to ensuring discipline in the field, proper conduct without supervision and commitment to duty, even under difficult conditions.
The Army Chief urged the RSMs to strengthen regimentation and mentorship while tackling behavioural challenges such as drug abuse, gambling, absenteeism and the misuse of social media, which he said undermine military discipline and professionalism.
He particularly commended the lecture delivered by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), on combating drug abuse.
Earlier, during a visit to Headquarters 4 Brigade, Lieutenant General Shaibu commended the troops for their efforts in maintaining peace and security within their area of responsibility. He also disclosed that some operational challenges raised by the Brigade Commander had been promptly addressed.
He charged the troops to protect lives and property, safeguard the interests of Nigerians and deal decisively with criminal elements. However, he emphasised that all military operations must be conducted professionally and within the law, with particular attention to 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 are 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.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also acknowledged the continued support of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to the Nigerian Army.
COAS Charges Army RSMs to Strengthen Discipline, Mentorship, Regimentation