By Victor Akaa.
In a bid to foster unity and cooperation between the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Police, Acting Chief of Army Staff (Ag COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has urged Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSMs) to curb inter-agency rivalry and be exemplary in their duties.
This development was made known to newsmen by the Director Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu in a statement on Thursday.
While addressing RSM participants at the Second RSM Convention 2024, held at the Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration (NASFA) in Apapa, Lagos, General Oluyede emphasized the importance of discipline and regimentation in promoting inter-agency cooperation.
Speaking on the theme “Fostering Improved Discipline and Regimentation in the Nigerian Army for Enhanced Capacity to Accomplish Constitutional Responsibilities within a Joint Environment,” General Oluyede noted that these traits are essential in drastically reducing unnecessary rivalry and skirmishes among services of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police, and other security and intelligence agencies.
The Acting COAS tasked the RSMs to prioritize discipline and mentorship, presenting challenges to the authorities for solutions.
This approach, he believes, will boost motivation and ensure that the Nigerian Army (NA) and other security agencies maintain well-led troops capable of performing their constitutional responsibilities.
Major General Jimmy Akpor, Chief of Administration Army (COA), echoed General Oluyede’s sentiments, describing Regimental Sergeant Majors as custodians of discipline and the bridge between officers and soldiers.
He challenged participants to be well-versed in handling matters related to barracks security, personal security, and troops’ welfare.
The convention, which had over 200 RSM participants in attendance, concluded with a commemorative tree planting by the Acting COAS at the NASFA premises. The event was graced by senior officers from the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Nigeria Police, and other security agencies.
In a related development, the Acting COAS commissioned 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital Interns accommodation at Yaba, Lagos.
During the ceremony, General Oluyede charged personnel and interns to maintain the edifice, ensuring that resources were not wasted on repetitive projects.
General Oluyede also promised to prioritize soldiers’ welfare, providing additional accommodation to cater to their needs.
