Staff Reporter- DIMAPUR, MAY 7 (NPN): The Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) convened its 8th General Conference on May 7 at Western Sumi Hoho Ki, Chekiye Village, hosted by Sumi Hoho. Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), S. Supongmeren Jamir attended the programme as special guest.
Addressing the gathering, Jamir appreciated the presence of leaders from Sumi Hoho, Lotha Hoho and Ao Senden, stating that they represented not only their respective tribes but also served as chosen leaders of the CNTC. He urged the council to move beyond focusing solely on the three tribes and work towards the unity of all Nagas.
Referring to the traditional three-stone hearth, he said the Ao, Lotha and Sumi tribes formed the foundation of the CNTC, and cautioned that any weakness or division among them would destabilize the whole structure. He also warned that limiting themselves to the three tribes alone would narrow their scope, stressing the need to work inclusively for all Nagas.
Jamir called for introspection, stating that shortcomings should not be blamed on others but recognised as internal failures requiring correction. He emphasised the need for better coordination among lawmakers, bureaucrats, technocrats, entrepreneurs and church bodies, adding that without unity and collective effort, progress would remain limited.
Referring to the role of elected representatives, he noted that with more than 20 legislators from the three tribes in the Assembly, they should set examples through service rather than seek positions or personal benefits. He also proposed a collective day of fasting involving state leaders, officials and church leaders and called for prayers to foster unity among the Naga National Political Groups.
In his address, CNTC president Khondao Ngully said the Ao, Lotha and Sumi communities needed to reflect on whether they were progressing together or falling behind due to divisions. He observed that despite having resources, educated people and leaders, internal disunity weakened collective strength.
He pointed out that development remained uneven, with some areas progressing while others continued to face poor roads, irregular electricity, lack of healthcare and limited job opportunities, he noted that many people still had to travel long distances for basic services, describing these as everyday challenges.
Highlighting issues affecting students, farmers and unemployed youth, he said the council must move away from a “tribe-first” mindset and work collectively for the welfare of all communities. He reiterated the need for fair and balanced development across districts, tribes and villages, warning that unequal growth would create frustration and disunity.
On identity and the future, Ngully said changing times required careful thought on protecting land, culture and traditions while remaining progressive and open-minded. He also expressed concern over the growing uncertainty and unemployment faced by youth and encouraged skill development, entrepreneurship and productive use of opportunities rather than dependence solely on government jobs.
Referring to unity among the three tribes, he said the Ao, Lotha and Sumi had a long history of standing together but were sometimes divided by misunderstandings and tribal differences. He emphasized the importance of mutual respect, cooperation and supporting one another.
The conference adopted several resolutions, including appreciation to Sumi Hoho for successfully hosting the event, reaffirmation to work towards the formation of an apex body “Nagas of Nagaland” based on equal representation from ENPO, CNTC and TUN, and a commitment to facilitate the formation of a Central Nagaland Youth Organisation comprising Ao, Lotha and Sumi youth under the guardianship of CNTC.
Other resolutions included continuing efforts to address common issues affecting the Ao, Lotha and Sumi communities as well as Nagas in general, and ensuring the financial stability of the council during the new tenure.
The CNTC Nomination Committee also announced its new team of office bearers for the 2026–2029 tenure, with Hukiye Yepthomi appointed as president, LongshiKikon and Temjennungsang Kichu as vice presidents. Imliakum as general secretary and Vanjamo Murry as finance secretary.
Short speeches were delivered by the incoming president, CNTC, Hukiye Yepthomi, CNWA, president, Dr. AnunglaAier, CNSA vice president Mughaka K. Zhimo, retired IAS, H.K Khulu and former deputy speaker, NLA, R. Yanthan. Greetings were extended by Lotha Hoho, chairman, Er. Mhondamo Ovung and Ao Senden, president, Marsanen Imsong.
Other highlights of the programme included a song by Lithungbeni Yanthan, a duet performance by Aren and Aien, and a dedicatory prayer for CNTC offered by Lotha Baptist Church Dimapur, pastor, Rev. LanlongYanthan.
The program was chaired by, CNTC vice president, Zhekheto Awomi, invocation by DABA, associate pastor, Moalong, welcome address by Sumi Hoho, president, Vihuto Assumi and concluded with the vote of thanks by CNTC, vice president, Imtikumzuk.
