KOHIMA, August 15 (MExN): Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Friday called for unity and strengthening of brotherhood while gracing the closing ceremony of the Dr. T. Ao Trophy 2025 as the special guest.
“The Government is committed to promotion of sports and also create infrastructures and training, talents development and opportunities,” Dr. Rio said, expressing happiness over the successful conduct of the tournament, which he noted had witnessed “skill, determination and team spirit.”
Touching on the participation of all 17 districts, he remarked, “Like we come together, let this unity, the spirit of unity be spread out outside the field and among the communities and strengthen our brotherhood.”
He urged the youth to work towards greater heights and said the legacy of Dr. T. Ao should “continue to inspire generations to come and carry forward the values of sportsmanship, unity and excellence in sports and in every aspect of life.”
Earlier, Nagaland Football Association (NFA) general secretary Benei M Lamthiu, MLA, led the acknowledgment of dignitaries, followed by a vote of thanks from B. Henok Buchem, Deputy Commissioner Kohima and member secretary of the organising committee.
The closing ceremony featured performances by Colored Keys, Ace Crew, Obed Kath (Divine Connection), Hentok Konyak and Kivika Achumi.
The tournament, which began on August 1, was organised by the NFA under the aegis of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and powered by the Kohima District Planning & Development Board. It was hosted by the Kohima District Football Association (KDFA).
