Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio joined the 25th death anniversary of the late Vamuzo (former Chief Minister of Nagaland, 19.06.1990 – 02.04.1992) organized by the Vamuzo Memorial Trust and Chozuba Range Public Organization, to remember and celebrate his life and contributions. The event took place at the local ground in Yorüba village, Phek, about 70 km from the state capital, Kohima, on 22nd March 2025.
Dr Rio recalled knowing Vamuzo since 1974 when he was a youth leader. He described him as a man of great integrity, someone who fostered a peaceful atmosphere to work with. Dr Rio added that Vamuzo’s legacy lives on, particularly through the VDB and Compact Area Development programs, which have greatly benefitted the economically weaker sections. He praised Vamuzo as a visionary leader with principles of honesty and integrity. The Chief Minister also urged Sano Vamuzo (wife of the late Vamuzo) and her family to continue contributing to society in the years ahead. He appealed to the gathering to uphold the uniqueness of the state.
Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsü, former Chief Minister of Nagaland, who also spoke on the occasion, urged the people to remember the good things Vamuzo had done and encouraged them to follow his example.
I Imkong, a former minister, also spoke, describing Vamuzo as a decisive leader with resourceful qualities. He mentioned that the Hotel Japfü project was initiated and materialized during Vamuzo’s tenure. MLA Achumbemo Kikon also addressed the gathering. Zapra Chakhesang, former Chairman of the Nagaland Public Service Commission, provided a brief overview of Vamuzo’s contributions to the state.
Sano Vamuzo, the wife of the late Vamuzo, expressed her gratitude for the time spent with her late husband. She thanked everyone who continues to honor his memory. Speeches were also delivered by Vezühü Keyho, President of CPO; Niketu Iralu, social activist; and Müdihi Lohe, Head GB of Yorüba.
Nibano V Swüro, daughter of Vamuzo, presented a song titled “Puo Ciekhrie Zo Rei Mehoya,” which was sung at his funeral. Other highlights of the program included special presentations by Thüpukha Sapu, Yorübami Welfare Organization Kohima, and Yorübami Uzuneko. Thenucho Tünyi, Chairman of the Vamuzo Memorial Trust, presided over the event.
The death anniversary program was attended by Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, Advisor for School Education & SCERT; Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe, Advisor for New & Renewable Energy and NSDMA; government officials; public leaders; and citizens from neighboring villages.
Vamuzo Memorial VDB Museum and Research Centre inaugurated
Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsü, former Chief Minister of Nagaland inaugurated the Vamuzo Memorial VDB Museum- cum Research Centre at Tükhoba, Yorüba Village (native village of Vamuzo former Chef Minister of Nagaland) under Phek district on 22nd March, 2025.
Dr Liezietsu addressing on the occasion stated that peace is the core of social life. He added that principles of peace are the heart of Christian doctrine.
Dr Meneno V Rhakho highlighted the concept of Village Development Board (VDB). VDB Yorüba, Vezota Veswùh delivered the welcome note while Thüjovelü Phesao presented a tribute song.
The program was organized under the aegis of Vamuzo Memorial Trust and Chozuba Range Public Organization. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Former MLA, Thenucho, Sano Vamuzo (wife of lt Vamuzo), government officials and public leaders from different villages.