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

The solemn event took place at the Division Headquarters Complex in Kawo, Kaduna, and was presided over by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Administration, Colonel I.A. Akabike.

Akabike represented the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1 of Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General Mayirenso Saraso.

In his remarks, Akabike paid tribute to the late mascot, describing it as a vital part of the Division?s traditions and heritage.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Kaduna, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Musa Yahaya, expressed the Nigerian Army?s sense of loss.

?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. 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.

The ceremony attracted senior officers, soldiers, their families, and other personnel.

Prayers for the repose of the late mascot?s soul were led by the Acting Deputy Director Chaplain Services (Protestant), Lt Col Ugwu.

Akawala had a rich legacy, descending directly from the Division?s pioneer mascot, Sgt. Farin Doki, who served from 1995 until its death in 2011.

After Doki?s passing, its successor, Akawala, served until 2014.

On January 1, 2015, Sgt. Dalet, the foal of Sgt. Danfari Akawala, took over as the Division?s mascot, faithfully serving until its demise.

The regimental funeral, the statement noted, underscored the Nigerian Army?s commitment to honouring its fallen heroes, including mascots that embody its traditions.

Full military honours were accorded to the late Sgt. Akawala, reflecting its distinguished service to the Division. (Sunday PUNCH)

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