Nigeria Army Gives Mascot Horse Military Burial

The 1 Division Nigerian Army, Kaduna, on Saturday held a regimental funeral to honour its late mascot, Sgt. Dalet Akawala, who passed away on January 24, 2025.

The solemn ceremony, held at the Division Headquarters Complex in Kawo, Kaduna, was presided over by Colonel I.A. Akabike, Deputy Chief of Staff, Administration, who represented the General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander Sector 1 of Operation Fansan Yamma, Maj. Gen. Mayirenso Saraso.

In his remarks, Colonel Akabike paid homage to the late mascot, emphasizing its importance to the Division’s traditions and heritage.

Lt. Col. Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, echoed these sentiments in a statement:

He said: “The Nigerian Army mourns the loss of Sgt. Dalet Danfari Akawala, who was a loyal and dedicated member of the Division. Late Sgt. Dalet Danfari Akawala served the Division with loyalty and dedication, embodying the spirit of courage and resilience.”

Sgt. Dalet Akawala descended from a proud lineage of mascots within the Division, tracing back to its pioneer mascot, Sgt. Farin Doki, who served from 1995 until its death in 2011.

Naijaonpoint understands that Akawala succeeded Farin Doki in 2014, before passing on its role to its foal, Sgt. Dalet, on January 1, 2015. The late Sgt. Dalet faithfully served the Division until its demise.

The funeral ceremony was attended by senior officers, soldiers, their families, and other personnel. Prayers for the mascot’s repose were led by Lt. Col. Ugwu, Acting Deputy Director of Chaplain Services (Protestant).