Nigerian Army Honours Late Mascot Horse, Sgt. Dalet Akawala, With Full Military Funeral

The Nigerian Army honors its late mascot horse, Sgt. Dalet Akawala, with a full military funeral, celebrating its legacy of loyalty and courage.

The Nigerian Army’s 1 Division in Kaduna paid its final respects to its cherished mascot horse, Sgt. Dalet Danfari Akawala, in a full military funeral held on Saturday, January 25, 2025. The loyal and dedicated horse passed away on January 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of pride and tradition for the Division.

A Tribute to Tradition and Loyalty

The solemn ceremony, conducted at the Division Headquarters Complex in Kawo, Kaduna, was presided over by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Administration, Colonel I.A. Akabike. The horse, which symbolized the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Sector 1 of Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General Mayirenso Saraso, held a significant role within the Division’s heritage.

Colonel Akabike, in his tribute, emphasized the importance of the mascot in upholding the Division’s traditions. He described the late mascot as more than an animal, acknowledging it as an integral part of their identity and a representation of the values they hold dear.

Courage and Resilience Remembered

In an official statement issued on Sunday, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Musa Yahaya, highlighted the horse’s legacy of courage and resilience. He noted that Sgt. Dalet Akawala served the Division with unwavering loyalty, embodying the spirit of the Nigerian Army.

“The Nigerian Army mourns the loss of Sgt. Dalet Danfari Akawala, who was a loyal and dedicated member of the Division. Today’s ceremony is our way of paying the last respect to a companion who brought pride and identity to the Division,” the statement read.

Ceremony Witnessed by Senior Officers and Families

The funeral ceremony was attended by senior officers, soldiers, their families, and other personnel, reflecting the collective respect and admiration for the late mascot. The event underscored the significance of tradition and the unity of the Nigerian Army in honoring its own.

Conclusion

The passing of Sgt. Dalet Danfari Akawala marks the end of an era for the 1 Division Nigerian Army. However, the legacy of courage, loyalty, and resilience demonstrated by the mascot horse will continue to inspire the Division for years to come.