Nagaland: CM urges legislators, govt officials to serve people with dedication

State chief minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, urged the legislators and government officials to serve the people with dedication and humility in order to build a society grounded in justice, harmony, and mutual respect, a DIPR report stated.
Speaking at the State Advent Christmas celebration programme at the State Banquet Hall, Kohima on December 12, 2025 on the theme “Immanuel: God with us in our service”, the chief minister said that sincere and dedicated service brings blessings not only to individuals but also to families and to the State as a whole.
Reflecting on God’s grace in his own life, Rio shared that this year was particularly meaningful as he celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary and over 50 years in public service.
He conveyed gratitude to fellow legislators, government officials, and the administration for their continued support and cooperation.
Encouraging everyone to prepare their hearts during the Christmas season, the chief minister urged them to renew their spiritual lives, inspire one another, and uphold the virtues of compassion, humanity, and service – the true essence of Christmas. He wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with abundant blessings in 2026.
Reflecting on the theme of the celebration, chief secretary, Sentiyanger Imchen, in his Christmas greetings, reminded the legislators and senior government officials present that they have been entrusted with a great responsibility to serve the people through the positions and authority granted to them.
Citing the example of Jesus washing the feet of His disciples at the Last Supper, he urged the gathering to draw inspiration from Christ’s life of service. The chief secretary expressed hope that the Christmas season would motivate every public servant to work with dedication rooted in ethical governance, compassionate administration, and people-centred leadership.
The Speaker, Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, remarked that Christmas being the busiest period of the year, people must take care not to become so preoccupied that they “miss Christ,” turning Christmas into “Christ-miss.”
Referring to Revelation 3:20, he reminded the audience that every Christmas is Christ knocking at the door of their hearts, seeking to transform their lives.
He urged everyone to make space for Jesus this Christmas and to live out His teachings and values to experience deeper joy, peace, and the true meaning of the season. As all are called to serve their fellow beings, he appealed to everyone to strive to be more like Jesus.
The programme was chaired by State chaplain, Rev. Izieteilung Terieng. Special Christmas songs were presented by AHoDs/HoDs and Angami Christian Revival Church.