By Musdapha Ilo, Maiduguri

The Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, a Lieutenant General, has said the war against Boko Haram insurgency has exposed major flaws in the army.

Buratai spoke at the 2015 Regimented Sergeant Major, RSM, Convention themed “Enhancing the Capacity of the RSMs to be Professionally Responsive in the Discharge of their Roles,” taking place in Maduguri, Borno State capital.

“We are all aware of the ongoing operations which the Nigerian Army is engaged in, especially Op Lafiya Dole. The counter insurgency operations have exposed some flaws in our discipline, regimentation and professionalism as well as the general conduct of officers and men of our Army,” Buratai said.

“This underscores my vision on assumption of office which is to have a professionally responsive Nigerian Army in the discharge of its constitutional roles.”

According to the army chief, the focus of his military leadership is the refocusing of the army and restoration of the above three cardinal principles to enable it perform its role of defending the country’s territorial integrity.

Buratai also highlighted the important roles played by the RSMs in the army.

“As the most important link between the officers and soldiers, as well as the custodians and repository of unit regimentation, it is pertinent to re-emphasize that my vision cannot without a well-disciplined, knowledgeable and highly motivated crop of RSMs who are ready to willingly and effectively discharge their responsibilities at all times,” the army chief stated.

The special guest of honour, Kashim Shettima, governor of Borno State, who praised the military for its efforts in bringing peace to the northeast, announced a cash donation of N50, 000 each to the RSMs.