Naga National Council Ao Region marks 77th Naga Independence Day with solemn ceremony

The Naga National Council (NNC) Ao Region commemorated the 77th Naga Independence Day with a ceremony held at the Khensa Peace Camp in Yimyu (Khensa). The event, presided over by NNC Ao Region President Senli Imchen, brought together members of the community to honor the sacrifices of the past and reflect on the Naga journey towards self-determination.

The proceedings commenced with a solemn moment as Tongpangshilu, CEC Member of the NNC, unfurled the Naga National Flag, a symbol that has represented the aspirations of the Naga people for decades. This was followed by observing a minute of silence in remembrance of the Naga leaders who dedicated their lives to the cause.

Tongpangshilu further conveyed a message from Gen. (Retd) Viyalie Metha, Kedahge of the Federal Government of Nagaland. In his message, Gen. Metha expressed gratitude to God for guiding the Naga people and allowing them to commemorate this milestone. He honored the sacrifices of past leaders and acknowledged the present leaders for upholding the Naga Nation’s rights. He urged Naga citizens to unite and prioritize their nation’s well-being, distancing themselves from past mistakes. He emphasized the enduring importance of the Naga Nation’s foundation laid by A Z Phizo and highlighted the need for unity in defending Nagaland’s sovereignty against external pressures.

Metha lamented the negative impact of materialism on Naga society, weakening moral values and ethics. He reminded everyone of Phizo’s prediction, that, “Nagas will never surrender on the battlefield, but many Nagas will fall when money is shot through the barrel of the gun.” He stressed the significance of rededicating lives to God and maintaining loyalty, honesty, and sincerity.

Metha also called upon the talented youth to contribute to nation-building and urged them to use their abilities to shape Nagaland’s future positively.

In the program, Bible reading and prayer was pronounced by the Pastor of Yimyu Baptist Church while short speeches were delivered by Dr Toshi Echa; Yimyu Ward Chairman; L Sendong, Advisor Board Member FGN; and Takoyaba, Senior Advocate and Ex-MLA.. The event drew to a close with a mass closing prayer.

Mokokchung Times