The Kohima Lotha Officer’s Football Team (KLOFT) emerged champion of the 9th edition of the Kohima Lotha Inter-Colony Father’s Football Tournament, defeating PAUN United 1-0 in an exciting 80-minute match played at IG Stadium on September 9, 2025. Earlier, in the exhibition match, the Kohima Lotha Student’s Union (KLSU) defeated the Lotha Student’s Union 2-0, while PAUN United Youth was adjudged the winner of the Youth Penalty Shoot-out.
Speaking as the special guest at the closing ceremony, Ex-MP and former KLH Chairman, Khyomo Lotha, said football is one of the favourite games of the Nagas. Recalling his own playing days as a team captain, he remarked that participation is more important than winning, as players could take part in the tournament because of their good health and stamina. He added that health has become very expensive and urged players and the gathering to maintain good health, stressing that sports and games can only be enjoyed through health, discipline, and sincerity.
Lotha further lauded the KLH officials for their tireless efforts in organizing the event with the aim of bringing the community closer and strengthening friendship among one another. He also shared that IG Stadium is a historical venue, as three Prime Ministers—Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee—were involved in its establishment and development. He expressed gratitude that the tournament could be played in such a stadium.
It may also be mentioned that the champions, KLOFT, contributed their winning cash prize to the KLH officials in view of the upcoming Kohima Lotha Hoho 50th jubilee celebration scheduled for November 2025.
Earlier, L. Yanremo Mozhui, Treasurer of KLH, chaired the closing ceremony, while Khonbemo Ngullie, Pastor of Kohima Lotha AG Church, and Mhonchumo S. Lotha, Pastor of Kohima Lotha Baptist Church, pronounced the invocation and benediction respectively. The spectators were enthralled by special numbers from E. Motsuthung Lotha, VP KLH, and Chumrenthung Humtsoe. The vote of thanks was delivered by K. N. Mhonthung Lotha, KLH Chairman, and the prize distribution was moderated by M. Mhao Kikon, Games & Sports Secretary, KLH.
