Major Jallow gave the assurance while addressing troops at the State Guard Battalion in Banjul during the nationwide military tour recently undertaken by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Major General Ousman Gomez.
Speaking on behalf of the Commander of the National Republican Guard, Major Jallow said troops’ welfare remained a priority, but stressed that improved welfare must be accompanied by greater individual responsibility, discipline and professionalism among officers and other ranks.
He urged personnel to remain conscious of the changing security environment, particularly the growing use of technology and social media in spreading misinformation and disinformation.
According to him, troops must exercise caution in their use of social media and avoid activities that could undermine public confidence in the Armed Forces. He also cautioned them against political involvement, tribalism, discrimination, drug abuse, sexual and domestic-based violence, theft and other forms of unethical conduct.
Major Jallow warned that indiscipline, disloyalty, lack of integrity and incompetence would not be tolerated within the Armed Forces, adding that violations would be dealt with in accordance with military regulations and national laws.
He further urged troops to respect civilians, exercise tolerance and maintain close cooperation with other national security institutions.
“By the nature of our constitutional functions, the Republican Guard as a service is one of the faces of discipline, loyalty and professionalism in the Gambia Armed Forces,” Major Jallow said.
He also encouraged personnel to uphold these values in the discharge of their duties, reminding them that military service is a noble responsibility that requires integrity, commitment and respect for human rights.
Major Jallow said the military uniform carries with it a responsibility to protect the dignity and rights of the civilian population, urging troops to avoid any conduct capable of tarnishing the image of the Armed Forces.
He assured personnel that under the leadership of the CDS and in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, efforts would continue to enhance troops’ operational preparedness, professional development, training prospects and overall welfare.
The nationwide tour provided senior military leadership with an opportunity to engage directly with personnel across different formations and listen to their concerns and operational needs.