Nigerian Army Pays Final Respects to Beloved Mascot Horse, Sgt. Dalet Akawala

The 1 Division Nigerian Army, Kaduna, has paid its last respects to a loyal companion, Sgt. Dalet Akawala, a military horse that served as the division's mascot.

A regimental funeral ceremony was held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Division Headquarters Complex in Kawo, Kaduna, to honor the late mascot.

Sgt. Dalet Akawala was a vital part of the division's traditions and heritage.

The horse had a rich legacy, descending directly from the division's pioneer mascot, Sgt. Farin Doki, who served from 1995 until its death in 2011.

After Doki's passing, its successor, Akawala, served until 2014. On January 1, 2015, Sgt. Dalet, the foal of Sgt. Danfari Akawala, took over as the division's mascot, faithfully serving until its demise.

The funeral ceremony was presided over by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Administration, Colonel I.A. Akabike, who represented the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1 of Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General Mayirenso Saraso.

In his remarks, Akabike paid tribute to the late mascot, describing it as a loyal and dedicated member of the division.

The Nigerian Army has expressed its sense of loss over the passing of Sgt. Dalet Akawala.

According to the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Musa Yahaya, the late mascot embodied the spirit of courage and resilience.

The ceremony was attended by senior officers, soldiers, their families, and other personnel.

The regimental funeral ceremony underscored the Nigerian Army's commitment to honoring its fallen heroes, including mascots that embody its traditions.

Full military honors were accorded to the late Sgt. Akawala, reflecting its distinguished service to the division.

The 1 Division Nigerian Army, headquartered in Kaduna, was established during the civil war.

The division has played a significant role in the country's military operations, and the loss of Sgt. Dalet Akawala is a reminder of the sacrifices made by all members of the armed forces.

The regimental funeral ceremony held for Sgt. Dalet Akawala was a fitting tribute to a loyal and dedicated member of the 1 Division Nigerian Army.

The ceremony demonstrated the army's commitment to honoring its fallen heroes and the important role that mascots play in embodying the spirit of courage and resilience.