The 1 Division of the Nigerian Army has conducted a regimental funeral ceremony for its late Mascot, Sergeant Dalet Akawala, on Saturday at its Headquarters Complex in Kawo, Kaduna.
The acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, made this known.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Kaduna, Yahaya said: “The solemn funeral was presided over by Colonel IA Akabike, Deputy Chief of Staff, Administration, who represented Major General Mayirenso Saraso, the General Officer Commanding the division and Commander, Sector 1 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.”
He said Saraso emphasised the importance of honouring the life and service of the mascot, describing it as an integral part of the division’s tradition and rich cultural heritage.
The GOC said: “Late Sergeant Dalet Akawala served the division with loyalty and dedication, embodying the spirit of courage and resilience.
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“The ceremony is our way of paying the last respect to a companion who brought pride and identity to the Division.”
Saraso extended his condolences to the entire Stallion family and the Nigerian Army, expressing regret over the loss.
He appreciated the dignitaries and sympathisers who attended the ceremony.
Yahaya said prayers were offered for a hardworking, agile, and dedicated replacement for the late Sergeant Akawala.
He said that during the funeral oration, Akawala was described as a direct descendant of the pioneer mascot of the division, Sergeant Farin Doki, that served from 1995 until its death in 2011.
He added: “After Sergeant Farin Doki’s death, the division acquired a new mascot, Sergeant Danfari Akawala, that served until its death in 2014.
“Sergeant Danfari Akawala’s foal, Sergeant Dalet, succeeded its father as the division’s mascot on January 1, 2015 and faithfully served until its demise on Friday.
“The funeral ceremony was concluded with prayers offered by Lieutenant Colonel Ugwu, the acting Deputy Director, Chaplain Services (Protestant), and was attended by senior officers, officers, soldiers, and their families.”