By Philip Nwosu
The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has pledged to restructure the Nigerian Army and its command structures to enhance operational effectiveness.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSM) Convention in Lagos, the Army Chief emphasised the need to revamp the force to better address security challenges facing the nation.
General Oluyede disclosed plans to implement strategic changes, including the reshuffling of key commanders, adding that, “My vision is to have a good army—a set of troops with good welfare packages that will encourage them to do their job well and secure Nigeria.
“I have been part of the architecture for the past five years, and I understand the trajectory needed to curb insecurity. Expect some rejigging and reshuffling as we move forward.”
The event, held at the Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration (NASFA), focused on enhancing the welfare and operational readiness of troops. General Oluyede stressed that better welfare packages would boost morale and effectiveness in securing the nation.
Addressing the RSMs, General Oluyede urged them to apply lessons from the convention in their units, especially as they return to their units. He reminded them of their critical role in curbing inter-agency crises and combating drug-related issues within the army.
“You must be exemplary and highly responsive in discharging your duties,” he advised, encouraging the RSMs to maintain discipline and foster positive attitudes among personnel.
The 2024 RSM Convention, themed “Fostering Improved Discipline and Regimentation in the Nigerian Army for Enhanced Capacity to Accomplish Constitutional Responsibilities Within a Joint Environment,” underscored the evolving role of RSMs amid Nigeria’s complex security landscape.
As custodians of military discipline and operational standards, RSMs bridge the gap between officers and enlisted personnel. Their role in ensuring discipline and advising commanding officers remains pivotal to the success of military operations.
This year’s convention served as a platform to address emerging challenges and reinforce the importance of discipline and regimentation in achieving the Nigerian Army’s constitutional responsibilities.