A major leap for football in Mokokchung unfolded on Saturday with the inauguration of the Mokokchung District Football Association’s (MDFA) first-ever office complex, located on the first floor of the long-abandoned District Youth Hostel near the Imkongmeren Sports Complex.
Until now, the MDFA had no formal workspace and functioned from the residence of its treasurer. “An office was needed although there was a treasurer,” said MDFA President N Akok Longkumer, acknowledging current Treasurer for managing the responsibilities despite the absence of an office.
Longkumer expressed optimism that the newly inaugurated space would help streamline operations. He also shared that the players currently representing Mokokchung in the Dr T Ao Trophy are residing in the District Youth Hostel, and from next year, the MDFA will fully shift operations to the new office space. “From next year, the players of the Dr T Ao Trophy will be occupied in the new office,” he added.
Imkongchuba, Chairperson of the Mokokchung Municipal Council, who graced the occasion, praised the MDFA’s recent grassroots initiatives, including the Zonal Association Program under the theme “Football at the Grassroots”, which seeks to bring the sport to rural communities and schools. He also lauded the MDFA’s growing role in talent scouting, coaching camps, and the successful conduct of the MDFA Trophy.
“Time has come for MDFA to have a football academy,” he said. “MDFA has the strength to start an academy. Let’s not wait for the perfect time.”
He further urged the association to reflect on past shortcomings and lead with integrity and accountability. “Nurture youngsters from the grassroots with the aim of seeing them represent Mokokchung at the state, national, and international levels,” he challenged.
According to a local landowner, the building now occupied by the MDFA office was originally constructed as a District Youth Hostel under a centrally sponsored scheme by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in the early 1990s. The project was reportedly based on a 75:25 funding model, with the Centre contributing 75% and the Nagaland State Government the remaining 25%. While MT could not independently verify these details, the landowner informed that the Centre released its share, but the State failed to fulfil its portion. As a result, the contractor abandoned the incomplete structure, and the building remained unused for over 30 years. A case has reportedly been submitted against the State Government regarding the matter.
Despite the setbacks, the MDFA has now begun using the space on a temporary basis, with due permission from the district administration.
The inaugural programme concluded with a dedicatory prayer by Rev. Talijungla of Ungma Baptist Arogo. The event was chaired by MDFA General Secretary Supongasang Jamir.