Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Monday called for a revival of the spirit of regionalism while reiterating the importance of maintaining the state’s strategic alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Addressing the Central Executive Council (CEC) meeting of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) at the party’s Central Office in Kohima, Rio delivered his first speech as the Leader of the NPF Legislature Party following the recent merger of the NPF and the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP).
“I come before you today with a renewed commitment to our shared ideals and to the future of the Naga people,” Rio said, describing the moment as “not just a political homecoming, but a reaffirmation of our collective responsibility to work together for the unity, peace, and prosperity of the Naga people.”
Reflecting on his political journey, Rio traced his early involvement in public life to the 1970s. “My political journey began many decades ago, when as a young man I was entrusted with the responsibility of serving as President of the Kohima District UDF Youth Wing in 1974, and later as President of the UDF Youth Wing, Nagaland in 1976–77. Those were formative years that instilled in me the values of public service, teamwork, and dedication to the people,” he said.
He entered the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in 1989 as a Congress (I) candidate from 11-Northern Angami-II Assembly Constituency and went on to serve in various ministerial capacities over the years. Highlighting his role in expanding the NPF’s regional footprint, Rio recalled, “In 2011, we expanded the NPF’s presence beyond Nagaland by launching the Manipur Unit of NPF at Senapati, and later extending our reach into Arunachal Pradesh, thus strengthening the regional voice of the Northeast under a common vision.”
He also reflected on his tenure in the 16th Lok Sabha from 2014 to 2018, during which he represented Nagaland at the national level, and his return to state politics to lead the NDPP and form the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) government in 2018 and again in 2023.
“To be part of a regional party is not always an easy path – it demands sacrifice, conviction, and resilience,” Rio stated. “Yet, it is essential if we are to preserve and promote the unique voice of the Naga people within the Indian Union. Since 2003, we have maintained a strategic alliance with the BJP, recognizing the importance of partnership for governance and development. While regional identity remains our priority, pragmatism requires that we continue to work in alliance with a national party to safeguard the interests of Nagaland and ensure stability and progress for our people.”
Rio also acknowledged the political realignments of recent years, recalling that on September 6, 2025, the NPF extended a formal appeal for him to rejoin the party and assume leadership in the greater interest of both the party and the Naga people. The NDPP subsequently endorsed the spirit of unity, leading to the merger on September 12.
Expressing his gratitude to party colleagues, Rio said, “I would like to place on record my sincere appreciation and acknowledgment to my esteemed colleagues Mr. Apong Pongener, Mr. Achumbemo Kikon, MLA, and Mr. Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, MLA, our party leaders, and the rank and file of both the NDPP and NPF for reposing your faith in my leadership and for your steadfast support and cooperation throughout this transition.”
Rio urged the party members to rise above differences and work together with a shared vision. “Let us revive the spirit of regionalism with inclusivity, compassion, and purpose, guided by the ideals that first inspired the NPF – Peace for Development and Development for Peace,” he said.
