The week-long Nigerian Army inaugural Regimental Sergeant Majors’ (RSM) Convention for the year 2025 ended May 29, 2025 at 3 Division headquarters in Jos, Plateau State with Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede underscoring the critical role of RSMs in enhancing operational effectiveness within the Army.
The event, which marked a significant step towards fostering a disciplined and combat-ready force, was attended by high-ranking officials, including Principal Staff Officers from Army Headquarters, heads of various security and paramilitary organizations, and other distinguished guests.
General Oluyede said at the closing ceremony that “this convention has deepened your understanding of the responsibilities intrinsic to your roles. You are not just leaders; you are custodians of the Army’s values and discipline.”
He reminded participants that their engagement during the convention was not just academic but a precursor to real-world applications meant to strengthen their units and formations.
General Oluyede urged the RSMs to take the insights gained back to their respective units, emphasizing, “Your duty is to mentor and guide every soldier under your command. It is imperative that you translate knowledge into visible action.”
According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations
3 Division Nigerian Army, “throughout the week, participants engaged in a series of meticulously developed discussions and workshops aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the Army.
“The convention served as an interactive platform where RSMs could share best practices and strategies for facing current military challenges. Topics ranged from effective leadership to fostering unit cohesion amidst rapidly evolving security threats we discussed. This focus on exemplary leadership is particularly crucial given the multiplicity of challenges facing the Nigerian Army today, including insurgency and internal security operations.”
Major General LA Fejokwu, Chief of Administration (Army), praised the discipline exhibited by the participants, remarking, “Your professionalism throughout this convention has been commendable. It is a testament to the caliber of leaders we have in the Nigerian Army today.”
General Fejokwu also expressed gratitude to the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, and his team for their exceptional efforts in hosting the event.
The closing ceremony featured the presentation of certificates to attendees and souvenirs to invited guests, signifying the successful completion of the convention.
A group photograph with the COAS and RSMs was taken to commemorate the occasion, with media representatives present to capture the highlights of this pivotal event.
The statement added that “participants left the convention energized and equipped, ready to implement the knowledge acquired and to embody the principles of exemplary leadership they were charged with during the week.
“The first RSM convention of the Nigerian Army stands as a landmark event that reinforces the Army’s commitment to operational readiness and effective leadership.
“As the RSMs return to their formations, the expectation is clear: they must lead with integrity, mentor their subordinates, and champion the values that define the Nigerian Army. With such dedication, the Army can maintain its mission of safeguarding national security and upholding peace within the country.”