The Nigerian Army has begun its 2026 Regimental Cadre (Militia) Convention in Kaduna, with a focus on strengthening discipline, leadership and combat readiness.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Waidi Shu’aibu, who declared the convention open through Maj-Gen Dangana Allu, Commandant of the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, said Regimental Cadre personnel remain crucial to the Army’s effectiveness.
According to him, the convention’s theme underscores the importance of building the capacity of personnel tasked with enforcing discipline and implementing command directives at unit level.
He said the country’s security environment requires a highly motivated and professional force, noting that Regimental Cadre members serve as a link between command decisions and their execution.
Lt-Gen Shu’aibu said the programme is designed to enhance participants’ leadership skills and enable them to better support commanders in achieving operational goals.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Administration, Maj-Gen Isa Abdullahi, said the initiative is aimed at strengthening the Army’s administrative and professional structures. He stressed that Regimental Sergeant Majors play a critical role in enforcing standards, mentoring troops and ensuring policies are effectively carried out.
He added that the convention reflects the COAS’s emphasis on professionalism, discipline and capacity building.
The General Officer Commanding 1 Division, Maj-Gen Abubakar Wase, welcomed participants and said the forum would encourage the exchange of ideas and experiences. He highlighted the need for innovation and strong leadership in addressing evolving security threats.
He also assured attendees of adequate logistics and urged them to remain security-conscious.
The convention will feature discussions led by experienced officers and experts, focusing on leadership, discipline, operational readiness, troop welfare and civil-military relations.
