Army 1 Division Buries Horse With Full Military Honours
The 1 Division Nigerian Army has buried its white horse mascot, Sgt Dalet Danfari Akawala, which was enrolled into service in 2015.
Sgt Dalet served as the Division’s Mascot from January 1, 2015, until its demise on January 24, 2025.
Sgt Dalet was the third in line after the pioneer mascot, Sgt Farin Doki served from 1995 until it died in 2011, followed by Sgt Danfari Akawala that died in 2014.
The burial ceremony was performed on January 25, 2025, at the Division Headquarters Complex in Kawo, Kaduna.
The solemn funeral was presided by Colonel IA Akabike, Deputy Chief of Staff Administration, who represented Major General Mayirenso Saraso, the General Officer Commanding, and also the Commander of Sector 1 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
“Late Sgt Dalet Danfari Akawala served the Division with loyalty and dedication, embodying the spirit of courage and resilience. Today’s ceremony is our way of paying the last respect to a companion who brought pride and identity to the Division,” he said.
Colonel Akabike extended his condolences to the entire Stallion family and the Nigerian Army, expressing regret over the loss, and appreciating the dignitaries and sympathizers who attended the ceremony.
Prayers were offered for a hardworking, agile, and dedicated replacement for the late Sgt Akawala.
During the funeral oration, Sgt Dalet Danfari Akawala was described as a direct descendant of the pioneer Mascot of the Division, Sgt Farin Doki, who served from 1995 until it died in 2011.
After Sgt Farin Doki’s death, the Division acquired a new mascot, Sgt Danfari Akawala, who served until its death in 2014.
Sgt Danfari Akawala’s foal, Sgt Dalet, succeeded its father as the Division’s Mascot on January 1, 2015, and faithfully served until its demise on January 24, 2025.