The Nigerian Army has urged Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSMs) to strengthen discipline, mentorship and professionalism among troops as the military prepares to recruit 28,000 additional personnel.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, gave the directive on Tuesday at the opening of the Second Nigerian Army Regimental Sergeant Majors Convention 2026 in Benin, Edo State. He was represented by Maj.-Gen. Olusegun Abai, Director-General of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre. Prime Post
Shaibu said the planned recruitment and expansion of the Army from eight to 12 divisions required stronger efforts to preserve military values and professional standards. He warned that increased manpower must not lead to a decline in discipline and operational effectiveness.
He described RSMs as custodians of military discipline and tradition, with responsibilities extending beyond enforcing military customs to mentoring soldiers and promoting professional conduct. He urged them to guide newly recruited personnel and lead by example.
The Army Chief also identified drug and substance abuse, gambling, absenteeism and misuse of social media as behavioural challenges requiring attention. He called for early intervention, improved personnel welfare and practical measures to prevent misconduct.
The Federal Government approved the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel as part of plans to expand the Army’s structure to 12 divisions and strengthen its capacity to address security challenges across the country.
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