Ben Ezechime, Enugu
No fewer than 250 Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSMs) of the Nigerian Army are participating in the 2025 RSMs Convention currently taking place in Enugu.
Declaring the convention open on Monday, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, charged RSMs to uphold discipline, regimentation, and professionalism both in barracks and operational theatres.
Represented by the Commander, Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, Maj.-Gen. Umar Abubakar, Shaibu emphasized that RSMs play a vital role in maintaining order and ensuring operational success within the Army.
“I urge you to participate fully in the convention and take advantage of the knowledge and experiences shared by the resource persons and retired RSMs,” he said.
“It is hoped that this forum will enhance your effectiveness and ensure you conduct yourselves above board.”
The COAS commended President Bola Tinubu for his continued support to the Nigerian Army, particularly in the area of funding.
Also speaking, the Chief of Administration (Army), Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim Abdullahi, represented by Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Gambo, said the convention aims to strengthen the regimental and operational capacities of RSMs across formations.
He noted that RSMs serve as the vital link between officers and soldiers, stressing that their leadership and mentorship roles are key to discipline and combat readiness.
In his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, Maj.-Gen. Oluremi Fadairo, represented by the Garrison Commander, Brig.-Gen. Steven Dogo, described the convention as a platform to deepen professionalism and regimentation in the Army.
He commended the COAS for his support and for choosing 82 Division to host the event.
The five-day convention has as its theme: “RSM’s Role in Operational Readiness and Combat Effectiveness.”
