In an extraordinary display of respect and tradition, the 1 Division Nigerian Army in Kaduna has held a regimental funeral ceremony to honor one of its own—a military horse and mascot, Sgt. Dalet Akawala. The announcement was made via Nigerian Stories’ official X (formerly Twitter) handle, detailing the solemn event that commemorated the passing of the iconic mascot on January 24, 2025.
Sgt. Dalet Akawala, more than just a military horse, was a cherished symbol of courage, resilience, and loyalty within the ranks of the Nigerian Army. For years, this noble steed embodied the discipline and pride of the armed forces, becoming a central figure in numerous parades, ceremonial displays, and regimental traditions.
The regimental funeral, an event steeped in military customs, was a testament to the profound connection between the army and its mascots. Draped in ceremonial honors, the ceremony featured a procession of officers and soldiers, complete with military salutes and an air of reverence that highlighted the bond between the Nigerian Army and Sgt. Dalet Akawala.
Beyond its symbolic importance, Sgt. Dalet served as a morale booster for troops and a reminder of the army’s storied heritage. His passing has left a void, not just among the soldiers of the 1 Division, but also within the broader military community that admired his grace and steadfastness.
The Nigerian Army has consistently demonstrated its commitment to upholding traditions, and the regimental funeral for Sgt. Dalet Akawala stands as a poignant reminder of the deep respect accorded to its mascots. The event underscores the army’s belief that even non-human members of its ranks deserve to be celebrated for their unwavering service and contributions to the force’s identity.
As tributes pour in from both serving personnel and civilians, many recall the powerful presence of Sgt. Dalet Akawala in official ceremonies and his unwavering representation of the spirit of the Nigerian military. Truly, his legacy will gallop on in the annals of military history.
This rare ceremony has sparked widespread admiration across social media, with users applauding the Nigerian Army’s reverence for tradition and the symbolic role played by mascots like Sgt. Dalet. His name will undoubtedly remain etched in the hearts of those who served alongside him.
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