On August 26, 2025, ABAM, Ao Senden, and the Mokokchung Ao Officers’ Telungjem (MAOT) held their first-ever interface meeting at Impur. The meeting sought to develop strategies to transform the Aos in general and ABAM in particular into a comprehensive skill development community and center.
Discussions focused on moving beyond traditional approaches to ministry and creating an organic resource that provides compelling reasons to nurture a healthy community.
Recognizing the collective strength of the three apex bodies in establishing a credentialed ministry and community, ABAM convened the meeting with the vision of building a holistic ministry that addresses the needs of the people.
Rev. Temsü Jamir, Executive Secretary of ABAM, first commended Ao Senden for hosting a purposeful program at Ungma on August 23, 2025, which sought to foster unity among all Nagas. He wished for expedited results from that initiative.
He then drew an analogy from the Old Testament, highlighting the role of elders and councils in safeguarding the people from enemies, promoting peace, and serving God. He cautioned that such responsibilities are equally crucial today, but lamented that not many leaders attend worship services anymore. He further pointed to elections and ongoing hostility between clans as two major challenges currently confronting the Aos.
Rev. Jamir stressed the significance of the covenantal oath symbolized by the Nülak asongba (“piercing of spears”), representing commitment to truth and identity. “In today’s context, where does truth stand?” he asked.
He also outlined nine key concerns for reflection: How the Aos define revival; Depopulation and migration to urban areas; Decline of the native language; Corrupt election practices; The status of Impur Christian Hospital; Establishing an educational museum at Impur; Transforming the ABAM resource center in Kangtsüng into a skill development center and educational eco-tourism resort; Creating a Christian entrepreneurship curriculum to promote youth self-reliance; and Building a nurturing community that fosters a convivial environment.
Six committees have been set up to study these concerns and will meet on October 16 and 17, 2025, to present their findings.
The presidents of Ao Senden and MAOT expressed gratitude for the meeting and voiced their concerns on enhancing resourcefulness and collaboration between Aos and ABAM.
ABAM extended thanks to Ao Senden and MAOT for their contributions and positive response to its needs.
A total of 25 members from the three organizations attended the meeting.
