Look to God to retain Christmas spirit — Rio

Kohima, Dec. 14 (EMN): Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday reminded the citizens in the state besides the government and churches to persist in prayers and look to God to retain the Christmas spirit, while recalling the global lockdown due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic, and stiff challenges especially with the killing of innocent lives by the security forces at Oting village recently.

He was speaking during the Angami Public Organisation golden jubilee pre-Christmas meet cum review meeting hosted by Angami Gazetted Officers’ Krotho (AGOK) at Hotel Vivor in Kohima.

“So with this Christmas, let’s rededicate our lives to God and come closer to Him,” he said.

Observing that the Naga issue has always been a complex one and something hard to resolve, he viewed that Nagas should come together and strengthen their voice to solve the problems confronting the Naga society and not only rely on the state government, Centre or Naga National Political Groups (NNPG) for the same.

Meanwhile, he expressed happiness on learning that the proposed jubilee memorial hall of APO has been conceptualised to cater to the needs of all citizens in Kohima irrespective of tribe or race.

Stating that the ‘Naga history originated from Angami region,’ Rio called upon the tribe to live up to the expectations of others throughout the state.

Referring to the provisions of Article 371 (A), he asked the Angami community to promote the traditions, culture and customs, at the same time encompassing unity and good leadership while working for peace, development and a secured future for the coming generation in the interests of the entire Nagas.

On the occasion, the gathering donated an amount of INR 1,42,490, which would be handed over to different orphanage homes.

Earlier, Neilhuzono Nagi, president of Angami Women Organisation read from the Scripture;

 Kedozeto Punyü, president of AGOK extended greetings and Razouvotuo Chatsu, president of APO gave an exhortation.

Special numbers were presented by the Angami Youth Organisation, Angami Students’ Union, AGOK and Neikiesalie Kire, advisor of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs on behalf of the Angami MLAs.

The gathering also sang “Joy To The World” before winding up the event.