By Chimezie Godfrey
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the critical role of Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSMs) in promoting discipline, leadership and operational effectiveness within the Nigerian Army.
The Army Chief stated this on Friday during the commissioning of the newly constructed 6 Division Regimental Sergeant Major’s House in Port Harcourt.
According to Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant General Shaibu described RSMs as the backbone of regimental administration and custodians of discipline, standards and morale among soldiers.
He said the provision of quality accommodation for RSMs was not merely a welfare initiative but a strategic investment aimed at strengthening leadership and enhancing operational efficiency at the unit level.
The COAS noted that Regimental Sergeant Majors play a vital role in translating command directives into action, maintaining troop cohesion and ensuring effective implementation of operational plans.
He added that they also serve as an important bridge between officers and soldiers, fostering professionalism, mutual trust, discipline and esprit de corps across formations.
According to the Army Chief, the influence of RSMs in mentoring personnel and motivating troops contributes significantly to mission success in various theatres of operation.
Lieutenant General Shaibu further stated that providing conducive living conditions for key regimental leaders would enhance their ability to discharge their responsibilities effectively, thereby improving the Army’s overall operational readiness.
He reiterated that under his “Soldier First” philosophy, the welfare of personnel, particularly those occupying critical leadership positions, remains a top priority.
The COAS stressed that sustained investment in welfare infrastructure for leadership cadres such as Regimental Sergeant Majors is essential to building a resilient, professional and combat-ready Nigerian Army capable of responding effectively to the country’s evolving security challenges.
COAS Reaffirms Key Role of Regimental Sergeant Majors in Army Operations
