JUNIOR COMMISSIONED OFFICERS AND SENIOR NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS RELATIONSHIP EFFECT ON REGIMENTATION

INTRODUCTION :

The reality of the implication of the relationship between junior commission officers and SNCOs on regimentation in the NCC is worth commenting about.
Specifically, this topic is geared towards addressing noticeable deficiencies in this relationship so that regimentation in the NCC formation/Unit is enhanced.
Several reasons have been adduced to be responsible for the dwindling regimentation in the NCC.
Among the reasons are; inferiority complex, share incompetence, fraternization, unnecessary affiliation and poor service knowledge.
Regimentation simply entails the enforcement or imposition of order or discipline. Collins dictionary defines regimentation as the act of forcing or order on; especially in a domineering manner. While merriam-webstar dictionary defines it as to organize rigidly especially for the sake of regulation or control to subject to order or conformity.

OVERVIEW OF REGIMENTATION IN THE NIGERIAN ARMY
The military in any nation is saddled with the responsibility of defending the territorial integrity of the nation from any form of external aggression. It is a vital instrument in the pursuance of the nation’s strategic interest. The risky and destructive nature of war has conferred on the profession of arms a character of its own that lays premium on an exacting standard and nobility. This has given rise to military culture that emphasizes hierarchy, discipline, loyalty and regimentation among others. Remarkably, the common military virtues when conditioned by experiences and societal values gives the military its distinct character as enshrined in its traditions customs and ethics. Armies world over operate on hierarchical structure and the NCC is not an exception where junior commissioned officers and senior non-commissioned officers operate within the superstructure. Regimentation is the strict discipline and enforced uniformity characteristics of military groups or totalitarian system. Regimentation set the basis and platform for relationship as well as activities in the NCC. Recall that the COAS vision for the Nigerian army ;which is “To have a professionally responsive NA in the discharge of its constitutional roles”, is hinged on two cardinals which are professionalism and responsiveness.
Professionalism is an in-depth knowledge of what you do and how you go about doing it with all ease and efficiency. The military is a basis for these. Sgt O’ brien of the royal MP summarizes code of ethics of the provost officer in one sentence: “When you put the red cap on, you have become part of something that represents the highest standard. You must remain beyond reproach and follow our motto EXAMPLO DUCEMUS By example we shall lead”. When one puts on the military uniform, one must by mindful of one’s actions. Discipline and unalloyed loyalty is the watch word.
In general therefore, regimentation which is the NA is the total submission and complete adherence to all procedures and requirements which encompasses all aspect of soldiering.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE JUNIOR COMMISSIONED OFFICERS AND SENIOR NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS
According to a renowned socialogist talcott parson (1902-1979), stratification in organization is to ensure that various sub-sets in the organization work for the effectiveness of same. He pointed that whenever a sub-set is faulty, it will definitely affect the entire system. The relationship between the junior officers and SNCOs is geared towards the effective working of the NCC. Thus, the relationship has greater impact on regimentation in the units in particular and the NCC in general.
The relationship between junior officers and SNCOs is based upon firm and friendly foundation of respect without any familiarity. Both junior officers and SNCOs have the utmost confidence in each other and a profound sense of pride in belonging to the same organization. Nevertheless, the relationship between junior officers and SNCOs is succinctly categorized as follows:
a. POSITIVE RELATIONSHIP
A positive relationship between junior officers and SNCOs occurs when it is healthy and acceptable. Positive relationship reinforces regimentation since it is clothed in the garment of strict observance and adherence to traditions, customs and ethics of the NCC. This type of relationship fosters to a great extent the discipline and moral of the soldiers and unit in particular and by extension the NCC. A conscious adherence to provisions as contained in the traditions, customs and ethics of the NCC is the key for the junior officers and SNCOs.
b. NEGATIVE RELATIONSHIP
A negative relationship exists between the junior officers and SNCOs when it violates all the expectations of the provisions of the tradition, customs and ethics of the NCC. This category of relationship is also regarded as toxic relationship. Whenever a toxic relationship exists between junior officers and SNCOs, regimentation suffers. This category of relationship is Inimical to the military regimentation and should be condemned in all ramifications by both junior officers and SNCOs. Toxic relationship breaks down military ethics and rubbishes the system as well as breed indiscipline in the unit, disrespect to service and murders regimentation in cold blood.

Comply by
Cdt S/Sgt Ogunremi paul T
VIA
Master warrant officer Dung Davou
RSM NIGERIAN MILITARY SCHOOL ZARIA