The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen OO Oluyede has officially inaugurated the Nigerian Army’s inaugural Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSM) Convention for the year 2025. The ceremony unfolded at Crispan Hotel Jos, highlighting the pivotal role of RSMs as both custodians of discipline and critical links between officers and soldiers.

The convention, themed “Culturing Exemplary Professional Leadership for Improved Motivation and Operational Effectiveness in the Nigerian Army,” is designed to enhance the competencies of RSMs, fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and innovation across all military formations.

In his opening remarks, General Oluyede, represented by Major General HE Nzan, Commander 4 Special Forces Command, underscored the importance of RSMs in maintaining regimentation and discipline within the army. “Your leadership has a direct impact on our operational success. The significance of cultivating a cadre of Regimental Sergeant Majors who exemplify courage, professionalism, and ethical leadership cannot be overstated,” he stated. This sentiment echoes the commitment of the Nigerian Army to elevate its standards and operational efficacy.

Major General LA Fejokwu, the Chief of Administration (COA), echoed similar themes, emphasizing the convention’s potential to reinforce core values and enhance troops’ skills. “We will explore innovative solutions to the challenges facing our units and work together to strengthen our bonds and enhance our effectiveness,” he remarked, expressing gratitude for the resources and supportive environment provided by the COAS.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General EF Oyinlola, described the convention as a crucial call to action. “The evolving nature of threats demands that we remain adaptive, innovative, and forward-thinking. Your ability to mentor, inspire, and maintain the highest standards of professionalism directly influences our operational success,” he asserted. Oyinlola urged participants to engage actively in all sessions, emphasizing that the insights gained during the convention will help shape the Nigerian Army’s future policies and strategies.

Throughout the week-long event hosted by 3 Division, RSMs will engage in a variety of activities, including lectures, workshops, and interactive sessions designed to hone their leadership skills and foster camaraderie among peers. This platform encourages sharing of knowledge and best practices, ultimately contributing to the professionalism and combat readiness of the Nigerian Army.

The convention also serves as a reminder to the Nigerian public about the army’s commitment to self-improvement and operational excellence. With RSMs at the forefront of discipline and motivation, the Nigerian Army aims to bolster its effectiveness, not only in addressing current threats but also in preparing for future challenges.

As the Nigerian Army embarks on this important journey of leadership and mentorship, the outcomes of the convention are anticipated to have a lasting impact on the military’s operational landscape. The commitment to cultivating exemplary leaders among the ranks reflects a proactive approach to addressing contemporary military challenges while enhancing the overall morale and effectiveness of the force.

The RSM Convention stands as a beacon for the Nigerian Army’s future, promising to lead the way in developing a disciplined, motivated, and cohesive military force that upholds the highest standards of professionalism and operational readiness.

As the events of the week unfold, all eyes will be on the contributions and innovations that emerge from this gathering of leaders, heralding a new era for the Nigerian Army.