Striving to be the best: WO1 Salihu
Army leader, Judo medallist, Chair of the Armed Forces Muslim Association (AFMA): WO1 Salihu answers 5 questions about his varied career.
Originally from Jimeta, Nigeria, WO1 Salihu joined the Army as a recruit and worked his way up to the highest rank a non-commissioned soldier can hold, as a Regimental Sergeant Major. He believes the Army is a family, full of different faiths. Read his story below in his own words:
What did you do before joining the Armed Forces?
“Prior to joining the Army, I was a professional Judo player. It was a privilege to represent my country in International tournaments in Africa, Europe and beyond. This activity continued when I joined the Army, I was one of the Army elite full-time athletes training at the University of Bath.”
“During my training period I won several medals and awards for my Corps (the Royal Logistics Corps), the Army, UK Armed Forces and my country. When I was a Corporal, I was the first black and first junior soldier to captain both the Army and UK Armed Forces Judo Team. Now I have turned to coaching the Army Judo team.”
What is your day-to-day role in the Army?
“As Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM), it is my responsibility for maintaining discipline, upholding our values and standards and the Army Leadership Code. In addition, whilst nurturing the social and moral development of the Officer Cadets, I also advise the Commanding Officer on soldiers’ matters, discipline, health and wellbeing.”
What is your favourite thing about the job?
“Quite a few to mention: The appreciation from my chain of command, the privilege to mentor, reverse mentoring senior officers and having to assist and resolve a complex issue for someone.”
How has your faith been supported within the Armed Forces?
“The Armed Forces Muslim Association provide incredible support to both Muslim and non-Muslim personnel. My proudest experience was when I got selected to go and perform a Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia in 2018, as well as becoming the Chair of AFMA. I feel very proud to be part of a strong community of serving Armed Forces personnel.”
“The Armed Forces Muslim Association is what I consider my second family.”
What would you say to someone from a Muslim background considering joining the Armed Forces?
“I would strongly recommend and encourage the person to join, as I think the future for soldiers like myself in the Armed Forces is exciting. I am seeing growing representation of minority groups because regardless of anyone’s colour, race, religion or belief, serving for your country is a unified achievement.”
“Always strive to be the best.”
